American President Donald Trump Invited to NRL’s Las Vegas Event
The National Rugby League (NRL) is making a bold move to capture international attention by inviting former President Donald Trump to its curtain-raising double-header event in Las Vegas. Set to take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, the event will feature four NRL sides, a Super League fixture, and a historic women’s international match at the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium. Peter V’landys, the head of the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), expressed his aspiration for the American leader’s presence, stating, "We’d love to have the president there—we will certainly be inviting Mr Trump." V’landys is confident that Trump’s attendance would generate significant publicity, not only in America but worldwide, further boosting the sport’s profile.
Trump’s History with Big Sporting Events
Donald Trump has a well-documented history of attending high-profile sporting events. During his presidency, he became the first sitting US president to attend a UFC event, sitting cageside at Madison Square Garden for UFC 244 in 2019. This groundbreaking appearance was a testament to Trump’s interest in combat sports and his ability to draw media attention. Since then, he has continued to make eye-catching appearances at various UFC main cards, often alongside Dana White, the UFC boss and his friend. Trump was notably present at the trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier at the T-Mobile Arena in Vegas, further cementing his status as a sports enthusiast. Additionally, he has been spotted at multiple Miami and New York events, always generating a considerable buzz among fans and media alike.
A Long Shot, But Not Impossible
While it seems like a long shot, V’landys is optimistic about the possibility of Trump attending the NRL event. As a noted boxing fan during his business days in New York, Trump has demonstrated a keen interest in physically demanding and intense sports. V’landys believes that the rugged nature of rugby league could be equally appealing to the 78-year-old former president. "It’s not impossible," V’landys remarked, acknowledging Trump’s busy schedule. "We know his calendar is packed, but we also know people with strong connections to him who might help us secure his attendance." V’landys is leveraging these connections and the sport’s appeal to make a compelling invitation.
Personal Appeal to Trump via Fox News
In an innovative and direct approach, V’landys sent a video message to Trump through Fox News, just three weeks before the event. In the video, he held a rugby ball with Trump’s name emblazoned on it and addressed the president, emphasizing the toughness and brutality of rugby league. "Mr. President, we want to introduce you to the toughest game on earth," V’landys said. "There is no sport more brutal than rugby league." This personal and enthusiastic appeal aimed to pique Trump’s interest in the event and the sport, showcasing the NRL’s determination to make a significant international impact.
Backing V’landys’ Efforts
Andrew Abdo, the CEO of the NRL, has expressed his support for V’landys’ efforts to secure Trump’s attendance. "He’s certainly been invited, and if anyone was going to be able to pull off getting Donald Trump to the stadium, it’s our chairman," Abdo told SEN. The NRL is committed to ensuring that Trump feels welcome and appreciated, should he decide to attend. "We’ll make sure that he knows that he’s welcome. If the stars align, we’ll get him in there and it’ll be terrific," Abdo added. The organization is hopeful that the unique combination of sport, spectacle, and American presence can create a memorable event for rugby league fans and the broader public.
The Potential Impact of Trump’s Attendance
The invitation to Trump reflects the NRL’s strategic focus on expanding its global reach. Trump’s attendance would not only bring widespread media coverage but also introduce the sport to a broader American audience. The event in Las Vegas, featuring a diverse array of matches and teams, is already poised to be a major spectacle. With the former president in the stands, the atmosphere could reach new heights, potentially leading to increased interest and support for rugby league in the United States. The ARLC and NRL are eager to capitalize on this opportunity to showcase the sport’s intensity and appeal, furthering their mission to make rugby league a globally recognized and beloved sport.
