The NRL is poised to sign the largest media rights agreement in Australian sport, a $5 billion package that reshapes the TV landscape and eclipses the AFL’s deal. Nine Entertainment and Foxtel, long-time rivals, have effectively joined forces to secure the rugby league competition’s domestic and New Zealand rights.
Their partnership puts the code’s annual media value at about $700 million and marks a major power shift in football broadcasting.
Under the agreement in principle, Foxtel is expected to pay about $500 million a year for pay-television coverage across its platforms. Nine would contribute around $150 million a year for free-to-air rights, keeping marquee matches on its main channel and streaming service 9Now.
A New Zealand broadcaster adds roughly $50 million a year, extending the package across the Tasman. The deal is designed to run through to the end of the 2034 season, locking in long-term certainty.
Pay TV and streaming subscribers are set to see comprehensive coverage on Foxtel, while Nine retains key live windows that drive mass audiences and advertising demand. The arrangement gives Nine exclusive rights to State of Origin and the NRL grand final, safeguarding two of Australia’s highest-rating annual events.
Nine also continues to air three games per round and the finals series, ensuring strong free-to-air exposure for the competition. Industry observers say the structure mirrors global trends where major codes split premium events and week-to-week fixtures between subscription and broadcast partners.
