NRL enlist comic Jim Jeffries, craft Aussie menu in attempt to bring Down Under to Vegas for opening games
The NRL is going all out in their efforts to make the Las Vegas games feel as Australian as possible. And while there will be no Holden cars, a few Kangaroos will feature.
International comedian Jim Jefferies and the humble meat pie are ready to share the stage with Stephen Crichton and Clint Gutherson as the NRL supercharges the latest bid to take over Las Vegas.
Jefferies, a Perth Bears fan who has become one of the biggest names in comedy, is set to bring his latest tour back to Sin City on the eve of the season-opening double header at Allegiant Stadium.
He won’t be the only international megastar enlisted by the NRL as they look to take the season launch to another level - country music sensation Dylan Scott is set to perform at Fremont Street in the lead-up to the triple
The biggest star of the entire show, however, could yet be the meat pie.
This masthead can reveal that Allegiant Stadium has agreed to alter their food offerings for only the second time - the first was for a Pink concert - to give the locals a taste of Australia.
Meat pies, sausage rolls, Tim Tam brownies and lamb burgers will be for sale on game day as Las Vegas locals get a taste of Aussie cuisine.
The Super League sides and their English supporters haven’t been forgotten either - Allegiant Stadium has agreed to sell bangers and mash in a tip of their hat to Hull KR and Leeds.
“The NRL’s iconic Las Vegas experience will go to a new level in 2026, with the biggest and most immersive event week we’ve ever delivered,” NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said.
“We’ve raised the bar on the iconic experiences fans have come to love such as Fan Fest, Fan Hub, the Business of Sport Conference and the NRL Nines, while the addition of the Oz Fest trade fair promises to add a new dimension to what is an incredible week of connectivity between the US, Australia, the UK and the Pacific.
“On game day itself, US fans will get to experience the best of Australia and the UK on and off the field, with authentic meat pies, sausage rolls, lamb burgers and bangers and mash available for sale inside Allegiant Stadium for the first time ever.
“If you’re thinking of joining us — there’s still time.
The NFL’s Allegiant Stadium will play host to the NRL for a third year running. Picture: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
The NFL’s Allegiant Stadium will play host to the NRL for a third year running. Picture: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
“Believe me, there’s nothing like seeing elite level rugby league played under the bright lights of the sports and entertainment capital of the world.”
The third year of the Las Vegas launch is set to be the biggest yet as the NRL look to capitalise on the success of the opening two editions of the groundbreaking concept.
Las Vegas has quickly become one of the most anticipated events on the rugby league calendar and the addition of the Bulldogs and Dragons this year has ensured the NRL will maintain the momentum given the huge followings of the respective clubs.
It is understood Newcastle and North Queensland supporters have also come to the party and the NRL has ensured they have plenty to look forward to after organising a spate of activities in the lead-up to the games.
It all starts with tag clinics and matches involving local high school children on Wednesday afternoon (local time).
Singer Dylan Scott will also make an appearance. Picture: Mat Hayward/Getty Images
Singer Dylan Scott will also make an appearance. Picture: Mat Hayward/Getty Images
Later that day, they will open the fan hub and host a media launch at Resorts World.
The following day the Vegas 9s will return with teams from America, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. That night, the Fan Fest will be held at Fremont Street, where the award-winning Scott will perform.
On match eve, the NRL will host a trade fair at Resorts World as well as their annual Business of Sport Conference, to be headlined by Brisbane Olympic boss Andrew Liveris, the president of the 2032 Games.
Las Vegas Raiders president Sandra Douglas Morgan will also be among the speakers along with heavyweights of American broadcasting and business.
Later that night, Jefferies will showcase his ‘Son of a Carpenter’ show at The Venetian. Jefferies grew up a North Sydney fan - his favourite player was Bears legend Greg Florimo. At one point, as the Bears were jostling for a return to the NRL, Jefferies was mentioned as a potential investor in the mooted franchise.
