
Next year's NRL season will kick off in Las Vegas featuring four teams: Wests Tigers, Parramatta, Gold Coast, and Melbourne.
On Sunday, February 28 (AEDT), the Tigers are set to battle the Storm, while the Eels will clash with the Titans at Allegiant Stadium, marking a significant moment in the league's Vegas contract.
As the NRL season approaches round 12, none of these four teams currently rank within the top eight, with the Tigers only slightly above 13th place.
This selection means the Dolphins will be the only team in this year's competition that has not yet experienced the Las Vegas showcase.
In addition, expansion teams Perth and the PNG Chiefs are expected to join the league in time for the final year of the NRL's contract in 2028.
Both Melbourne and Parramatta boasted membership bases exceeding 30,000 last season, enabling them to bring significant fan support to the United States.
The Tigers' participation is noteworthy, especially considering previous CEO Shane Richardson had stated there was no desire for the club to play in Vegas.
This season opener will also signal the beginning of Jarome Luai's last season at the Tigers, as he will be transferring to the Chiefs afterwards.
It remains uncertain whether renowned coach Craig Bellamy, who is contracted until 2028, will lead the Storm for the Vegas game and beyond due to recent health concerns.
