The NRL and NRLW grand finals will be played at Accor Stadium on Sunday, October 1, the league, and key ministers have announced.
The Australian Rugby League Commission and NSW Government struck a one-year deal for this year’s grand finals, with continuing discussions to take place for matches beyond 2023.
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham, Minister for Sport Steve Kamper, Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys AM and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo announced on Monday
V’landys said it was important to give fans certainty.
“We have worked closely with the NSW Government to reach an agreement for the 2023 Grand Final,” V’landys said.
“We are respectful of the new Labor Government’s priorities at the moment and their focus on the state budget, which is why we have agreed a short-term deal which gives all stakeholders certainty about this year’s grand final and provides all parties the time required to continue discussions about a long-term partnership.”
The NRL said there will be “continuing discussions to take place for matches beyond 2023”, following reports there was interest from both the Victorian and Queensland governments to host the event.
Fox Sports reports the NSW government has forked out $10 million to retain the event in 2023 which will include a fan festival in Sydney.
“We all love a Grand Final, but this event has become so much more, making a big social and economic contribution to the state,” Graham said.
“This event attracts thousands of fans from interstate and overseas who also visit Sydney’s many attractions, enjoy shows and arts, eat and drink in our world-class restaurants, supporting jobs in the visitor economy.”