No try: Qld bid fails to strip NRL finisher from NSW
The NRL Grand Final will remain in NSW after a late $10 million surge from Queensland failed to get across the line.
ARLC chairman Peter V’Landys has this afternoon confirmed Accor Stadium will play host on October 2.
“After extensive negotiations, we have made a decision, which we think is in the best interest of our fans,” Mr V’Landys said.
He stressed that a deal has not been struck for future grand finals, meaning the event could move as soon as next year.
“It opens the door for a Super Bowl type concept or, who can give us the best deal for the game,” he continued.
“You have to remember we do have four teams in Queensland.”
The Palaszczuk government hoped to snag the hosting rights to three grand finals ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
Negotiations began earlier this month when Mr V’Landys accused the NSW government is reneging on a deal to revamp suburban football grounds.
Despite the deal’s apparent collapse, officials still held a preference for keeping the showpiece in NSW throughout discussions.
“There is a valid agreement in place and we want that to be honoured because of those investments in grassroots footy at those suburban stadiums,” ARLC board member Kate Jones said on August 3.