Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

NRL broadcast deal history has been made, with the league confirming a $5.3 billion seven-year agreement from the end of the 2027 season.

Channel Nine will retain free-to-air rights and exclusive coverage of men’s and women’s State of Origin, while Foxtel Group remains the pay TV partner.

The deal lands during a major rugby league week, with Ethan Strange giving New South Wales a timely injury boost before the State of Origin decider.

V’landys Hails Record Agreement

Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys called it the biggest broadcast deal in Australian sport.

"This agreement is certainly futuristic," he said.

"The deal future proofs the league for the next 20 to 50 years."

V’landys said the new money would help the NRL grow beyond Australia and the Pacific region.

"Our ambition is to grow the game globally and with these additional funds we'll be able to achieve that," he said.

Fans And Subscription Costs In Focus

Nine will show three NRL and NRLW games each round, while Fox will broadcast all matches live except State of Origin and the grand final.

Foxtel Group chief executive Patrick Delany faced questions over whether Kayo subscription prices could rise again.

"We're completely aligned in making sure it's affordable," Delany said.

"I think we've got a good track record. It is very well priced."

Outgoing NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said keeping one pay TV and streaming partner was part of protecting supporters.

"Affordability and accessibility is not just about price point, it's about how much content is freely available.

"The mix between free and pay and only having a single pay partner; these are strategic decisions the commission has made to protect fans."

Expansion Shapes The Future

The Perth Bears join the NRL next year, while the PNG Chiefs will enter in 2028.

V’landys said Monday night football is unlikely to return, with the NRL taking greater control of the draw.

"I don't think Monday night is an option," V’landys said.

"The NRL now is responsible for the draw. We wanted to make it fair and equitable for all clubs. It's not really designed for the broadcast."

Official rugby league updates are available through the NRL.