The National Rugby League (NRL) has taken a monumental step in expanding its international footprint, teaming up with JD Sports ANZ in a groundbreaking two-year partnership. Announced today, this alliance names JD Sports the Official Presenting Partner of Rugby League Las Vegas for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
JD Sports, known for its influence in the sports fashion market, boasts a presence spanning over 4,500 stores in 38 territories worldwide, including strong footholds in North America, the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia. This collaboration is poised to revolutionise the Rugby League Las Vegas festival, promising fans an elevated experience blending sports and fashion.
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The global sports fashion giant will also take on the role of Official Sports Retail Partner for the NRL Premiership.
“It is great to welcome JD Sports to the Rugby League community as a partner and as a brand that has a passion for innovation. We look forward to working with JD Sports to take the Rugby League Las Vegas festival to even greater heights for fans over the next two years,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said. “The partnership represents an opportunity for the NRL to work with a global sports brand to build our connection to youth culture and capitalise on the brand’s influence in the US”.
As the official sports retail partner, JD Sports will play a pivotal role in aligning the NRL with global sports culture. This partnership is set to boost the league’s visibility, especially among younger, fashion-conscious fans, by merging the universal appeal of sports with JD’s vibrant brand identity.
The collaboration between the NRL and JD Sports was subtly teased throughout the 2024 Grand Final festivities, creating anticipation among fans and players alike. The Dally M Awards, Fan Fest, and Grand Final week saw JD’s exclusive footwear worn by players and staff, adding an extra layer of excitement and brand integration across high-profile events.
“JD is extremely proud to partner with the NRL on such a significant international event. We pride ourselves on bringing energy to the marketplace through unique partnerships and engaging our audience through the culture of sport,” said JD Sports ANZ CEO Aaron Faraguna.
This partnership aligns with JD Sports’ mission to merge athletic and lifestyle fashion, appealing to a global audience and connecting with fans beyond traditional sports engagement.
As the NRL takes the field in Las Vegas, fans can expect a dynamic blend of sport and style, paving the way for a new era of Rugby League that resonates across continents and generations.
