NRL Looks to Expand Reach with Las Vegas Presence

Young Wests Tigers player Heamasi Makasini could represent USA national team as NRL grows fanbase in America

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The NRL is making a strategic push to expand its presence in the United States, with the annual season opener in Las Vegas serving as a springboard. This includes actively recruiting NRL and Super League players with US eligibility to represent the US national team, with the goal of building a competitive squad for the 2030 Rugby League World Cup. Meanwhile, teams are embracing the Vegas experience, using it as an opportunity for cultural immersion and networking with American sports organizations.

Why it matters

The NRL's expansion into the US market represents a significant opportunity to grow the sport globally and attract a new generation of fans. By tapping into American talent and leveraging the popularity of Las Vegas, the league is positioning itself for long-term success in a lucrative new market.

The details

Former NRL prop Adam Woolnough, now head coach of the US national team, is actively scouting players currently in the NRL and Super League, identifying 'about a dozen players' and receiving commitments from three or four. The blueprint includes up to six international matches annually against nations like Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and France, all geared towards preparing for the 2030 World Cup, potentially hosted in Las Vegas. Players like Ronaldo Mulitalo and Daniel Vidot have already paved the way, having represented the USA in previous competitions. Beyond the games, teams are embracing the Vegas experience, with the Canterbury Bulldogs arriving two days early and the North Queensland Cowboys leveraging the trip for cultural immersion and networking with American sports organizations like the UFC and Raiders.

  • The NRL's annual season opener in Las Vegas is an ongoing event.
  • The 2030 Rugby League World Cup is a potential future event.

The players

Heamasi Makasini

An 18-year-old rookie for the Wests Tigers who could represent the United States national rugby league team through his parents' eligibility.

Adam Woolnough

The head coach of the US national rugby league team, who is actively scouting NRL and Super League players with US eligibility.

Ronaldo Mulitalo

A player who has previously represented the USA national rugby league team.

Daniel Vidot

A player who has previously represented the USA national rugby league team.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.