LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Melbourne Storm's football boss, Frank Ponissi, has expressed strong disappointment over the NRL's decision to overlook his team for the 2026 season-opener in Las Vegas, calling it a "kick in the guts" for both the club and rugby league in Victoria.
According to reports, the Storm were a top contender for this year's trip to America but withdrew their application last June to concentrate on local preparations.
Once again seen as favorites for 2026, they were ultimately passed over with the Bulldogs, Dragons, Cowboys, and Knights selected to participate, alongside a Super League match-marking a deviation from including a women's game.
The Melbourne Storm ranks among Australia's most successful sporting clubs, recently drawing sellout crowds with a stellar performance, including a 64-0 victory over the Wests Tigers.
The opportunity to play in Vegas is viewed as vital for promoting the game globally, intensifying the disappointment for Ponissi and the club.
"I can't sugar-coat it, it was a kick in the guts for the club and the game down here in Victoria," he stated on SEN.