LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Canberra Raiders' CEO Don Furner has openly criticized the NRL regarding the 2026 premiership schedule, claiming that the league is favoring the Brisbane Broncos by creating a fixture that provides them with a distinct advantage.
Furner's comments followed the NRL's announcement of the 2026 fixture list, which reveals that the reigning champions will play an impressive 14 games at Suncorp Stadium, even being designated as the 'away team' during Magic Round.
He described this situation as a "dream draw" for the Broncos and contended that the league routinely offers them scheduling benefits.
"I think they end up playing 14 games at home because they also play Redcliffe there," Furner remarked to reporters.
"They are very, very lucky, but I can't wait for the year they miss out on Magic Round," he added.
Furner underscored the glaring discrepancy between clubs, revealing that during the first 17 rounds of the 2025 season, the Raiders had to travel 14,960 kilometers for 10 away games, while the Broncos traveled a mere 6,200 kilometers during the same period.
Additionally, Furner criticized the league's arrangement of Magic Round, where the Broncos continue to gain from playing at their home ground, even when they are officially listed as the visiting team.