$30m to flow from ARL plan
THE ARL Commission is exploring a historic grand final at Suncorp Stadium this season as part of a State of Originstyle best-of-three series decider that would deliver the NRL an extra $30 million in funding.
ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys has fielded a proposal for the NRL to host three grand finals – including one at Queensland’s home of rugby league – to generate extra cash for the code amid the coronavirus pandemic.
V’landys confirmed the proposal last night, adding: “It’s an option that will be considered.”
The concept will be passed to the newly formed innovation committee, which will map out strategic events for the NRL premiership this year.
Under the blueprint, Suncorp would host Game Two of a three-game grand final series.
A September 1 competition restart would see the Suncorp decider held on Boxing Day, with financial forecasts projecting a $30 million profit for the code from that game alone.
Under the NRL’S revised return-to-play schedules, a September 1 resumption would see the grand final played on December 20 at the SCG.
But with the NRL fighting to stave off bankruptcy following the COVID-19 crisis, every financial opportunity is being discussed and a multi-game grand final format would enable the code to earn extra millions from one of its showpiece events. The idea is the brainchild of former New Zealand Test forward Dean Lonergan and Brisbane Bombers shareholder Nick Livermore.
Lonergan has experience in delivering major sporting events.