Brisbane keeps the magic until 2027!
Brisbane has won the bid to host the NRL’s prestigious Magic Round from 2025 to 2027.
This enchanting announcement follows a competitive process involving bids from several Australian states, with Queensland ultimately emerging victorious.
Magic Round is a highlight of the NRL calendar, featuring one full Telstra NRL Premiership round – eight games played over a single weekend at the iconic Suncorp Stadium. The event will now also include the opening Women’s State of Origin game, turning it into a four-day festival of footy magic.
The NRL opened up the event for competitive bidding last year, seeking proposals from all Australian states. Brisbane's pitch, brimming with magical potential, centred on its unique ability to offer a bigger and bolder event. The city's vibrant atmosphere and the central location of Suncorp Stadium conjured an irresistible offer, ensuring Brisbane retained its position as the event's home.
Magic Round has also proven to be a significant economic win for Queensland. The 2023 event, which sold out for the first time in its history, injected a whopping $41.1 million into the local economy over three days. Visitors collectively booked 123,000 bed nights and the 2024 event is also a sell-out, with over 140,000 tickets vanishing.
Brisbane’s appeal lies in its ability to deliver an unparalleled fan experience. The city transforms into a cauldron of excitement, with fans filling the streets, restaurants, and Suncorp Stadium itself. This festive atmosphere has become a hallmark of the event, casting a spell on rugby league enthusiasts and making it a must-visit spectacle.
Looking ahead, the Magic Round will continue to conjure new and exciting experiences. The NRL and Advance Queensland partnership will introduce the Magic Round Startup Program, aiming to pilot cutting-edge sporting technologies. This initiative, along with enhanced airport activations, a city concierge program, and the Brisbane experience program, will elevate the event to new heights.
The upcoming Queen’s Wharf development, set to open in late 2024, promises to add another layer of magic, illuminating the city with rugby league fever for years to come.