In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — Rugby League World Cup 2026: 100 Days to Go
2. RUGBY — Vakatawa close to making Test comeback with Fiji
3. RUGBY — FRU chairman demands accountability
4. RUGBY — Fijian Drua welcomes increased Australian investment
5. ATHLETICS — Yeshnil Karan’s recovery on Track ahead of Glasgow Commonwealth Games
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Origin Late Mail: Maroons-Blues intact on match eve
7. RUGBY LEAGUE — Historic $5.3 billion media rights deal sets new benchmark for Australian sport
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — Fans the big winners from landmark media rights deal
9. RUGBY — Hooper to return to Australian Rugby
10. FOOTBALL— Argentina produce epic World Cup fightback to beat Egypt, reach quarters
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Rugby League World Cup 2026: 100 Days to Go
SYDNEY, 08 JULY 2026 (NRL)—The best and most competitive Rugby League World Cup is just 100 days from kick-off as players from 26 teams representing 14 nations in Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair tournaments ramp up preparations to win the game’s ultimate prize.
Rugby League World Cup 2026 gets underway on October 15 with the Kangaroos, the 2025 Ashes Series winners, taking on Pacific Cup champions New Zealand at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium.
It will conclude with the Men’s and Women’s finals on November 15 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, where the 100 Days To Go countdown was launched by Australian Rugby League Commissioner, The Hon Kate Jones.
Kangaroos coach Kevin Walter and Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner were also in attendance at the event, which was MC’d by Channel 7 sports presenter Mel McLaughlin.
Staged in nine cities in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, Rugby League World Cup 2026 will feature 51 matches across the three tournaments in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Port Moresby, Christchurch, Newcastle, Wollongong, Gold Coast and Townsville.
Rugby League World Cup 2026 is proudly supported by the Australian Government.
Minister for Sport, the Hon Anika Wells MP, said: “The Albanese Government’s investment will help deliver a world-class tournament that inspires participation in rugby league at the junior level, including for Australians with disability.
“RLWC26 will strengthen Australia’s reputation as a global leader in hosting major sporting events as we build towards the Brisbane 2032 Games.”
Rugby League World Cup 2026 is also supported by the NSW Government through their tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, Queensland Government, through Tourism Events Queensland, Experience Gold Coast and Townsville City Council with Townsville Enterprise Limited, and Western Australian Government through Tourism WA. The Rugby League World Cup 2026 New Zealand match day is supported by ChristchurchNZ.
More than 100,000 tickets have been sold so far for RLWC2026, and fans are encouraged to take advantage of the accessible ticket pricing as matches are expected to sell out.
To coincide with the 100 Days To Go countdown to the Rugby League World Cup, RLWC2026 has announced the tournament’s inaugural commercial partners:
*Youi – Official General Insurance Partner of RLWC2026
* Bank South Pacific – Official Banking Partner of RLWC2026
*Rebel – Official Sports Retail Partner of RLWC2026
*Steeden – Official Match Ball of RLWC2026
*Ticketmaster – Official Ticketing Partner of RLWC2026
*New Balance – Official Apparel Partner of RLWC2026
The involvement of such a prestigious suite of commercial partners highlights the strong belief that RLWC2026 will be the most anticipated Rugby League World Cup ever staged. RLWC2026 would like to thank our partners for their commitment to showcasing rugby league’s ultimate event.
Established in 1954, the Rugby League World Cup is the second oldest sporting World Cup, and the 17th iteration is set to be the most competitive yet as Australia, New Zealand, England, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, France, Cook Islands and Lebanon battle it out for the Paul Barrière Trophy.
Tonga started a Pacific revolution at the 2017 World Cup and Samoa went a step further at RLWC2021 by creating history as the first Pacific nation to qualify for a World Cup final.
Since then, New Zealand have twice won the Pacific Cup, including a record 30-0 defeat of Australia in 2023, while Tonga qualified for the 2024 final and Samoa played in last year’s final against the Kiwis.
The format of the pool stages for RLWC2026 ensures a cut-throat element to the Men’s tournament, with crossover games and head-to-head results potentially determining semi-final spots and ensuring every match is must win.
Men
The 10-team Men’s tournament will include one pool of four and two pools of three nations.
*Group A: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands
*Group B: England, Samoa, Lebanon
*Group C: Tonga, Papua New Guinea, France
Group A teams will each play three matches against the other teams in Group A. Group B and C teams will each play three matches against the teams in the adjacent group (ie Group B teams will play Group C teams only).
The Men’s tournament will kick off at Allianz Stadium on Thursday, October 15, with the heavyweight clash between the top two world-ranked teams, the Kangaroos and the Kiwis.
The opening weekend will also feature a clash between England and Tonga at Perth’s HBF Park, on Saturday, 17 October.
The Group stage culminates with a match between Pacific giants Tonga and Samoa, at CommBank Stadium, on Sunday, November 1, that is likely to decide which nation progresses to the play-off stages of the tournament and which nation is eliminated.
The top two teams from Group A will progress to the Semi-Finals, while the top two teams from a combined table of Group B and Pool C will progress to the Semi-Finals.
Men’s matches will be played across Sydney, Port Moresby, Perth, Newcastle, Christchurch, Brisbane, Wollongong, Gold Coast and Townsville.
Women
In the Women’s World Cup, eight nations are set to take to rugby league’s ultimate stage and the all-conquering Jillaroos will not have everything their own way as the growth of the NRLW and eligibility rule changes strengthen other nations.
After dominating Women’s Rugby League until their first defeat by Australia in the 2013 World Cup final, the Kiwi Ferns are again building and will be bolstered by big name stars switching from the Jillaroos and the addition of cross-code athletes.
*Group A: Australia, England, Samoa, Wales
*Group B: New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, France, Fiji
The Women’s tournament will kick off on Friday, October 16 with a clash between the Jillaroos and Samoa that will headline a double-header at CommBank Stadium with the Samoa v France Men’s match.
Each team will play three matches against the other teams in their Group. The top two teams from each Group will progress to the Semi-Finals.
Wheelchair
Just as the 2017 World Cup took Women’s rugby league to new heights, the Wheelchair World Cup is set to expose new fans to a form of the code that underlines why rugby league is known as the greatest game for all.
England will be aiming for back-to-back Wheelchair World Cups, while France will be out to avenge their defeat in the RLWC2021 final an Australia’s Wheelaroos will be aiming to win on home soil.
The eight-team Wheelchair tournament will be played in its entirety at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre.
*Group A: England, Ireland, Wales, USA
*Group B: France, Australia, Scotland, New Zealand
England’s opening match against Wales on October 30 will coincide with the England Men’s and Women’s teams playing afterwards in a double-header at the adjacent WIN Stadium, with Papua New Guinea and Fetu Samoa their respective opponents
UK – RUGBY: BBC SPORT PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Vakatawa close to making Test comeback with Fiji
LONDON, 08 JULY 2026 (BBC SPORT)—Virimi Vakatawa, who could make his Fiji debut against England on Saturday (14:10 BST), says he never dared to believe he would play international rugby again after a heart condition brought an abrupt end to his 32-cap France career.
The 34-year-old centre was barred from playing in France in September 2022 after a panel of doctors said that his cardiac health had deteriorated, leaving him too vulnerable to play elite sport in the country.
While the decision ruled out any return as a key part of France’s midfield – where he started the 2019 Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Wales and was a Six Nations regular – it only applied domestically.
Vakatawa played for Bristol for a season, after being reviewed by the Bears’ own experts, and signed for the Fijian Drua in January.
He has been called into Fiji’s squad as a replacement for Semi Radradra, who injured his knee in defeat by Wales on Saturday.
Vakatawa is eligible to represent Fiji under World Rugby’s ‘birthright’ rule, which allows players to switch national allegiances to a country in which they, their parents or grandparents were born in after a three-year stand-down period.
Vakatawa, who made his most recent France appearance against Japan in July 2022, was born in New Zealand but moved back to his parents’ native Fiji as a young boy.
“No, to be honest with you,” he told BBC Sport, when asked whether he had considered the possibility of a Test comeback
“Playing international rugby is something that I knew I was not going to be able to do. From that day [of being barred from playing in France], I thought it was over.
“Maybe I thought I can still play in club rugby, but this is huge to come and represent my country Fiji.
“When I was selected, I was surprised. When you play for Fiji, you have to be good, because there are talents everywhere.
“It is an honour and a privilege for me to be here and to be part of this environment.”
While Vakatawa has been away from Test rugby, his profile, power game and offloading ability have made him a regular for the Barbarians.
He started for the invitational side in their games against South Africa and Wales last month, running in one try and setting up another against the Springboks.
The former Racing 92 man says the differing diagnoses about his heart condition, which was first detected in 2019, don’t concern him.
“I’m all good, I feel as well as ever,” he added.
“Different opinions from different cardiologists and different specialists – I’m not really worried about that.
“Whatever the doctors say that’s their opinion. So, I respect whatever past doctors and cardiologists have said, but what matters for me is I’m here and I’m healthy.’
Vakatawa made 19 appearances for Bristol during the 2023-24 season, with Benhard Janse van Rensburg also part of the team.
If selected for Saturday’s match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, Vakatawa could face another allegiance-flipping Test debutant and former team-mate in Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
Vakatawa started nine Premiership games alongside Janse van Rensburg, the former South Africa Under-20 player who becomes eligible for England for the first time at Test level this weekend, at Bristol during the 2023-24 season.
“He is a good man,” said Vakatawa of Janse van Rensburg.
“He is a team player, I can say. He works hard for the team. He’s very solid, he’s strong and I’m just going to wish him well for his career.”
England, who are in the midst of a five-defeat losing streak stretching back to February, are likely to name their team on Thursday.
Their summer schedule in the new Nations Championship will conclude against Argentina in Santiago del Estero on 18 July….PACNEWS
UK – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
FRU chairman demands accountability
LONDON, 08 JULY 2026 (FIJI SUN)—For the first time, the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is hosting all their Nations Championship matches in the United Kingdom (UK).
It’s a big step forward for a Pacific Island nation, who is now ranked in the Tier One.
After the Nations Championship opener, we spoke to Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) board chairman John Sanday on Sunday of how things went in Cardiff during the first week.
The journey and the challenges (on and off the field) they have encountered and how they could improve in the remaining Test matches against England in Liverpool, this Sunday followed by Scotland on July 18 in Edinburgh.
SUN: Hosting our first Nations Championship Test match overseas (in the UK) what has been response like?
SANDAY: The response has been truly humbling. For this I mean the response from the Fijian diaspora here and the support and effort they put in to help FRU and Fiji in the momentous journey.
I also must commend the response and well wishes from the Welsh people.
The support of the Fijian diaspora and the Fiji Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Fiji High Commission in London has been really outstanding.
I salute High Commissioner Jovilisi Suveinakama for the volume and quality of work he and his staff have provided. I just want to personally say thank you and vinaka vakalevu to all for that.
SUN: In terms of gate takings in Cardiff, what are the indications like? Are we going to get a profit or break even?
SANDAY: We haven’t reconciled the numbers yet. But my honest view it is a loss.
We have made-up some good revenue from other parts of the game we could sell, so once we tally up we will know.
SUN: What are some urgent matters the FRU board wants to see improved in this weekend’s Test match against England?
SANDAY: The philosophy I have brought into FRU is the principle of accountability. We are all accountable for our roles and responsibilities to bring about a better outcome for the whole FRU.
The players have been well-looked after and paid well, where is the Return on Investment? This is the urgent question.
I have said right from the outset, this FRU I am running is a business. Moreso, the Rugby Nations Cup tournament is a business. So we have to approach it strictly in a business way.
The accountability questions will be asked.
SUN: How are the ticket sales like in Liverpool and Edinburgh?
SANDAY: Ticket sales for the game against England have been very good. We are sure to make a profit there. We still have about 5000 more tickets to sell and should be sold this week. Either way we have already gone well, past the break even point.
For the Edinburgh match ticket sales are rolling well, we have sold more than half and also looking positive.
Let me say, that from the outset, the game against Wales was always the challenge in terms of ticket sales. I have stated this repeatedly in my statements and it has rightly turned out that way.
When you look at the non-financial returns from the week and the day, it has been an astounding success.
The community coming together, the game day entertainment, how the Welsh people were full of praises for Primanavia and last night’s (Saturday) after match function with Paradise Rootz to see the people and community coming together as a family was truly something I was proud of.
SUN: What are some of the new learnings for the FRU board for taking such great initiative?
SANDAY: The main learning was through last week’s work and yesterday’s game day performance is that we have the capability to turn on a world class event.
I think our pre match show made the BBC News and it was impressive.
The major learning is that we need a winning Flying Fijian team to make this business a success. Ticket sales will always be stronger if the team is winning or displays a winning attitude.
SUN: Your ‘personal view’ of what had transpired in Wales during the first week and also the Flying Fijians losing 39-24 to the Welsh?
SANDAY: When I weigh up all the effort that has been put in to deliver a game day experience, the loss and the way we lost the game was disappointing.
I would like to remind us all the Board has worked very long hours and invested all our capabilities to deliver these three games, and we haven’t gotten one cent in remuneration.
Those that are very well-paid, from the management to the players need to look at themselves. in the mirror and be honest.
I personally don’t accept sub-par performance. The return on investment on the Wales match was minus. A poor return all around.
My major learning from Saturday’s outcome was that we must relook at the organizational culture.
We are not demanding high peformance enough from everyone in the organisation. We need to hold each other accountable and deliver the wins we have been searching for consistently.
This is not a picnic trip where one just goes through the motions, gets paid and then repeat it next week.
We sometimes are too nice to each other and don’t want to confront the bitter truth.
The journey to success and the maintenance of success is not for the feint-hearted. It requires honest accountability from everyone to everyone in the organisation.
We seem to be still stuck in Tier 2 in our attitude and approach to the game on Saturday. This has to change and change quickly.
On the bright side, the financial projections for the entire series is still intact.
Saturday was a loss but overall we are still in line for a surplus and we have made sure we immunised the project from major downside risk.
I, as the leader take full responsibility for this loss.
We now set our sights on the next game and we regather ourselves and reset our focus.
The hill climb gets steeper from here on but it is not unachievable. We need to dig deep and step up……PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Fijian Drua welcomes increased Australian investment
NADI, 08 JULY 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—The Fijian Drua has welcomed the Australian Government’s decision to increase its financial investment in the club, describing the move as a significant boost for the franchise’s long-term sustainability.
In a statement, Fijian Drua Chief Executive Officer Jeff Miller expressed gratitude to the Prime Ministers of Fiji and Australia for facilitating and approving the increased funding through Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Miller said the support comes at a crucial time following the end of World Rugby’s funding at the end of June.
He noted that the increased investment will help ensure the Drua remains financially sustainable while continuing its mission to win Super Rugby titles, inspire the nation and create opportunities for Fijians through rugby.
Miller added that the funding will assist in strengthening both the men’s and women’s development pathways, enabling the Drua to continue producing world-class talent and remain competitive in Super Rugby.
He also highlighted the franchise’s contribution to Fiji’s economy, saying the Drua generates more than $108 million annually in sports tourism.
The Drua CEO said the franchise will also continue to serve as a bridge between Fiji and Australia, reflecting the strong relationship and shared sporting history between the two countries.
Miller said the Drua looks forward to working closely with the Australian High Commission, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Rugby Australia in the future….PACNEWS
FIJI – ATHLETICS: ATHLETICS FIJI PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Yeshnil Karan’s Recovery on Track Ahead of Glasgow Commonwealth Games
SUVA, 08 JULY 2026 (ATHLETICS FIJI) — Athletics Fiji is pleased with the strong progress being made by Fiji’s leading distance runner, Yeshnil Karan, following the emergency appendicitis surgery he underwent on 04 April.
Just three months later, following the mandatory six-week recovery period and a further six weeks of structured training, he has made outstanding progress in rebuilding his fitness. His recovery has exceeded expectations, and he is firmly back on track as preparations intensify for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
His latest performance at the Gold Coast Marathon 5km race on Saturday was another encouraging milestone. Yeshnil recorded 15:00 minutes, finishing 11th overall against a quality field. He ran confidently with the lead group and covered the first 3,000m in a promising 8:43, confirming that his recovery remains well ahead of schedule. As expected, he faded over the closing stages, reflecting the continued rebuilding of the race-specific endurance and sharpness required ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Importantly, unlike many competitors who tapered specifically for the event, Yeshnil raced while maintaining a full training program as part of his preparation for the Commonwealth Games later this month.
Coach Atma Maharaj said the result confirmed that Yeshnil’s recovery remained ahead of expectations.
“Considering where Yeshnil was just six weeks ago, the progress has been extremely encouraging. The strong Aerobic Base he developed before surgery has allowed him to recover remarkably well. There is still important work to do, particularly in rebuilding speed endurance and race sharpness, but he is firmly back on track for Glasgow.”
Yeshnil returned to Brisbane four weeks ago, where he is training alongside several of Australia’s leading middle and long-distance athletes as he completes the final phase of his Commonwealth Games preparation. With just three weeks remaining before the Commonwealth Games, Athletics Fiji is encouraged by Yeshnil’s rate of progress and remains confident that he is building toward peak condition. We look forward to seeing him once again proudly represent Fiji on the international stage……PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Origin Late Mail: Maroons-Blues intact on match eve
BRISBANE, 08 JULY 2026 (NRL)—The Maroons and Blues are locked and loaded for an epic decider with both sides unchanged 24 hours before kick-off.
There will plenty of debate right up until 90 minutes before kick-off at Suncorp Stadium as to whether the Blues should bring Cameron Murray into their starting line-up and put Isaah Yeo on the bench.
Canterbury playmaker Matt Burton left Blues camp on Monday after Ethan Strange proved he had overcome an ankle injury.
Earlier in camp, the Raiders star rolled his ankle during the team’s training session at Cbus Super Stadium and was later spotted in a boot, with the Bulldogs’ bye allowing Burton to join the team in camp as cover.
With Strange making it through the team’s session at Ballymore on Monday, Burton has returned home to Sydney and will line up for the Bulldogs in Saturday’s clash against Canberra.
Strange’s injury marks the second time this series Burton was rushed into the NSW camp after he joined the side when Mitchell Moses injured his hamstring just two days before Game One.
Moses’ injury saw Strange promoted to the starting side, with Burton added to the bench and injected into the fray in the dying minutes of a historic comeback.
The Blues have now suffered training injuries before all three matches with young gun Casey McLean injuring his quad prior to Game Two and forced to miss the clash at the MCG.
The Origin shield will go on the line in front of a sell-out crowd, with Queensland desperate to ensure history repeats after levelling the series in Melbourne.
Billy Slater’s men dropped Game One in 2025 before going on to win the final two matches of the series and they will look to follow the same path this year.
In good news for the Maroons side, forward Pat Carrigan completed the entire opposed session against the Gold Coast Titans on Thursday.
The Broncos and Kangaroos representative was picked by Slater to take his place in the Maroons line-up despite missing the past few weeks of football with an ankle injury.
“It was good, ticked off a lot of boxes and I had a good hit out against the Titans boys,” Carrigan said.
“I feel really healthy and ready to go.
“A couple key things to go, but I feel good.
“I’m 100 percent ready to go.
“Did all the sessions today, felt really confident and I’ll have another run on the weekend, so it’s all about me nailing my job and it’s nice to be in a position to be able to play.
“I’m well aware that I’ve got to perform on next Wednesday, so that’s where my focus is.
“Obviously, I’m four-weeks off the op, so there’s a few things I need to get right, but it’s all in terms of just making sure I’m ready to train at my best and be at my best for the boys.”
Elsewhere, halfback Sam Walker has made a smooth transition to the Origin arena and steered the Maroons to a dominant victory at the MCG.
The young playmaker has formed an attacking combination with five-eighth Cam Munster, the pair unlocking a star-studded backline.
Selwyn Cobbo is in career-best form, while Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow is a proven performer at Origin level and Kalyn Ponga provides an additional playmaking threat for the Blues defence.
NSW are licking their wounds after a bruising loss in Melbourne, with coach Laurie Daley making a host of changes in a bid to spring an upset in Brisbane.
Jack Bostock has been named to make his Origin debut on the wing, while veteran Liam Martin is back on deck and sure to get under the skin of the Queenslanders.
The match looms as one of the biggest of halfback Nathan Cleary’s career, the playmaker yet to win a decider and desperate to deliver in the game’s biggest stage….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Historic $5.3 billion media rights deal sets new benchmark for Australian sport
SYDNEY, 08 JULY 2026 (PACNEWS)—The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has secured a record-breaking $5.3 billion (US$3.67 billion) media rights agreement with Foxtel Group, Nine and Sky NZ, establishing the largest broadcast and media partnership in Australian sporting history.
The seven-year agreement from 2028 delivers a substantial increase in annual revenue to the game, returns control of competition scheduling and structure to the ARLC, expands access for fans across key markets and creates new opportunities for growth in Australia, New Zealand and internationally.
ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM thanked all broadcast partners for their collaboration and said the result future proofs the game and provides a platform for growth in Australia and globally.
“Today marks a defining moment for rugby league. The Commission has worked hard in the last five years to make the game more entertaining for our fans, effectively doubling our audience. Our Players and Clubs that made this possible will now be justifiably rewarded.
“This agreement is the largest commercial deal ever secured by an Australian sport, but its significance goes well beyond the financial outcome. It returns the draw back to the NRL and will ensure fair and equitable scheduling for all Clubs. It also gives us greater flexibility to shape the future of the game, and ensures more fans can access rugby league than ever before.
“We entered these negotiations with a clear objective — secure long-term growth while retaining control of the things that matter most. We have achieved that outcome.
“I want to thank Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany, Nine Chair Peter Tonagh, Nine CEO Matt Stanton, and Sky NZ CEO Sophie Moloney for reaching a landmark agreement that puts the fans and the future of rugby league first,” Mr V’landys AM said.
Under the new long-term partnership, the deals provide:
* A seven-year term from 2028, to provide certainty for the future of rugby league.
*A 90 percent uplift in cash received per annum compared to the current deal.
*Foxtel will continue to televise all NRL and NRLW Premiership matches, including all NRL and NRLW Finals Series matches.
*Nine will provide exclusive coverage of the NRL Grand Final and both Men’s and Women’s State of Origin Series and will simulcast three weekly NRL and NRLW fixtures.
*Sky NZ will place over 130 fixtures on their free platforms to continue the growth of fans in New Zealand which has almost tripled in the last five years.
*An innovative revenue sharing and marketing agreement on international rights with the Foxtel Group.
* Season structure, scheduling and draws are now under the ARLC’s control.
*A commitment from media partners to positively market and grow the game.
*More stringent quality assurance mechanisms in relation to conflicts of interest.
NRL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Abdo described the deal as a reflection of the unprecedented growth of rugby league and the confidence the market had in rugby league’s future.
“This agreement reflects the strength of rugby league today and confidence in where the game can go next. It is the result of years of planning, discipline and execution by the Commission as we positioned the game to maximise its value in a rapidly changing media landscape.
“The outcome gives us the certainty, flexibility and resources to pursue ambitious growth opportunities across every level of the game.
“In particular, more investment than ever will go into grassroots and community football to drive participation and ensure all levels of the game flourish.
“Rugby league is now in the best possible position for further expansion and continued growth from a community level through to the international stage.
“Most importantly, it gives the game greater control over how rugby league is produced, distributed and experienced, ensuring fans remain at the centre of every decision we make,” Mr Abdo said.
Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany said: “This renewed NRL partnership is a great outcome for the game, fans and our subscribers and maintains Kayo Sports and Foxtel as the home of NRL and live sport in Australia well into the next decade.
“We have been partners in the growth of rugby league for 30 years and are committed to working with the NRL to grow the game at all levels, elevate the fan experience and deliver even better innovation for audiences watching across Australia and in 200 international markets through DAZN.
“We invest $1 billion (US$690 million) every year in sports rights and production. Sport is critical to Australia’s social infrastructure and with the NRL investing significant broadcast dollars directly into grassroots football, every Kayo subscriber not only buys affordable family entertainment but contributes to a better and stronger community.
“Our thanks go to Peter V’landys and Andrew Abdo for their trust, vision and commitment to the ongoing innovation that continues to drive the growth of the game.”
Nine Entertainment Chair Peter Tonagh said: “Rugby League is a core part of Nine’s DNA, and this new agreement extends our partnership with the NRL into its fourth decade. The game is central to the fabric of Australian society and we take our role seriously in helping to grow the game with new audiences and fans.
“Over the course of our partnership, Nine has successfully delivered audience growth while deepening connections with consumers and advertisers.
“We look forward to continuing to work alongside the NRL to provide an unparalleled experience for fans right across the country”.
Nine CEO Matt Stanton said: “Rugby league is one of Australia’s great sporting institutions, and we’re proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the NRL. As the Home of Rugby League’s biggest moments, our focus is on ensuring the game remains accessible to all Australians, continuing our commitment to bring the action live and free.
“Today’s fans expect more than live broadcasts. They want richer experiences, deeper storytelling and greater connection to the game every day. Together with the NRL, we’ll continue to evolve how Australians experience rugby league while helping grow audiences, fandom, and the long-term future of the code.”
Sophie Moloney, Sky Chief Executive, commented: “The passion New Zealanders have for rugby league continues to grow, driven by a world-class competition and the incredible support behind the Warriors. I am delighted that Sky has extended its long-standing partnership with the NRL and will continue to bring the sport we love to audiences across the country.
“For more than three decades, Sky and the NRL have enjoyed a strong partnership, bringing rugby league to fans across Aotearoa New Zealand. In recent years, we’ve built on that foundation by working together to grow the game, inspire the next generation of players and fans, and help rugby league continue to thrive. This new agreement gives us the opportunity to carry that momentum forward as we continue to bring this exciting coverage to Sky and Three audiences for years to come.”…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Fans the big winners from landmark media rights deal
SYDNEY, 08 JULY 2026 (NRL)—Rugby league fans are set to be the biggest winners from a historic new NRL media rights deal.
The Australian Rugby League Commission on Tuesday announced a seven-year $5.3 billion(US$3.67 billion) agreement, the largest broadcast and media partnership in Australian sporting history.
The deal continues the existing partnership with Foxtel Group, Nine and Sky NZ, and expands access to matches for fans in Australia, New Zealand and around the world.
Already the most viewed sport in Australia and the pacific, supporters will be put at the centre of the rugby league viewing experience.
“One of the vital requirements that we needed and we’ve delivered was it would be affordable to the fan,” ARLC chairman Peter V’landys said.
“Thanks to [Foxtel parent company] DAZN, we’ve agreed to ensure the fan can afford to watch the great game of rugby league. That has also been achieved, we thank DAZN for the way they’ve embraced that requirement.”
NRL CEO Andrew added the new deal will provide fans with new opportunities to connect with the game’s biggest stars.
‘I want to thank and acknowledge both Nine and Foxtel for the way they’ve embraced the modernisation of how we present the game,” Abdo said.
“What you’ll see in the new deal, you’ll see changes around the draw and the season structure belonging with the game, which the broadcasters have embraced well.
“Also the way in which modernisation has occurred in terms of content creators and clubs being able to access footage and bring that to life for fans. The fans are the winners from that. There’s many elements to this and it goes beyond just the price.”
The landmark seven-year deal commences in 2028 and will see every NRL and NRLW match broadcast live in Australia on Foxtel.
Channel Nine will continue to provide exclusive coverage of the NRL Grand Final and both Men’s and Women’s State of Origin Series and will simulcast three weekly NRL and NRLW fixtures.
Sky NZ will continue to facilitate the rapid growth of rugby league in New Zealand, with 130 fixtures broadcast on the network’s free platforms. The number of fans across the Tasman has tripled in the last five years and the growth is tipped to accelerate under the new deal.
International growth has been a key focus for the NRL in recent years and V’landys said the new deal provides the foundation to expand the sport’s supporter base around the world.
“The deal future proofs the game for everybody,” V’landys said. “It future proofs it for the next 20-50 years, this will enable us to buy assets to continue to grow the game.
“More importantly, it gives us the platform to not only continue to grow the game here in Australia, but globally. Our ambition is to grow the game globally. With these additional funds, we’ll be able to achieve that in all parts of the world.
“We’ve done a deal where there’s 400 million subscribers to DAZN that rugby league will be marketed to. That’s a very important element to us. This isn’t just about growing it in Australia, this is about growing it in all markets around the world.
“The $5.3 billion (US$3.67 billion) over the seven years does not include that potential growth in the market. We believe the $5.3b (US$3.67 billion) will increase substantially once we start our global ambitions.”
The new deal comes on the back of record television ratings and crowds throughout the past couple of years.
Last year’s epic grand final between Brisbane and Melbourne was the most viewed rugby league match of all time.
The Game Two of this year’s State of Origin series was the second most viewed match of all time, while Wednesday’s decider at Suncorp Stadium is tipped to surpass both rating figures.
The increased interest comes amid a rapidly changing game, with the introduction of set restarts contributing to the creation of a fast-paced, high-skill contest.
The competitiveness of the sport is reflected in this year’s NRL ladder, with just four points separating second and ninth on the table.
The players on the field have felt the rise in interest, with more games played in front of big crowds and even bigger television audiences.
“You can see the shift in the support and the way the game has been marketed and advertised,” Sharks prop Tom Hazelton said.
“The product’s as good as it’s ever been so it’s no surprise the broadcast deal probably exceeded what they were expecting. The game’s in a good place and I’m looking forward to seeing it continue to grow,” he said…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Hooper to return to Australian Rugby
BRISBANE, 08 JULY 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Rugby Australia and the Queensland Reds are pleased to announce that Wallabies back rower Tom Hooper has officially committed his long-term future to Australian Rugby, signing a new agreement that will see him join the Queensland Reds ahead of the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season.
The 23-Test international, who currently plays in England’s Premiership competition with Exeter, has put pen to paper on a contract that secures his return to home soil through to the end of 2030.
Hooper’s signature is a strong endorsement for Australian Rugby with the 25-year-old versatile forward emerging as one of the players to watch in international rugby.
After a standout 2025 international campaign that featured a Player of the Match performance during the Wallabies’ 22-12 third Test victory against the British & Irish Lions, Hooper’s long-term commitment is a massive positive for supporters of Australian Rugby.
Hooper was recently named in the Premiership Team of the Season after helping Exeter to the final and while he will fulfill his current commitments in the UK for the next two seasons – his impending arrival in Queensland in 2029 will be welcome addition to the Reds’ squad.
Born in Bathurst, Hooper’s journey has taken him from a Bathurst Bulldogs junior to a Super Rugby debut with the Brumbies before being selected in the 2023 Rugby World Cup where he played every single minute for Australia.
Hooper will return to Australian Rugby in mid-2028, at the conclusion of his current deal with Exeter.
Wallaby number 964, Tom Hooper said: “I’m really happy to have my long-term future secured with a move back to Australia in the not-too-distant future.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying my time in Exeter and am focused on continuing to improve my game there before returning to Australia and linking up with Queensland.
“In the short-term, my priority is to continue working hard with the Wallabies where I’m incredibly hungry to contribute on and off the field as we continue to build our game as a group.”
Rugby Australia’s Director of High Performance Peter Horne said: “Tom’s return to Australian Rugby is a real coup for all supporters of the game in this country.
“He’s someone who works incredibly hard on his craft and has already shown the impact he can have at the highest level.”
Reds General Manager, High Performance, Sam Cordingley said: “We’re delighted to welcome Tom to the Reds. While it will be a few years before we see him in a Reds jersey, he’s another world-class player we can build our squad around.
“In planning for the future, we’re confident Tom’s decision to join the Reds will be a catalyst for retaining and recruiting players over the next few years,” he said…PACNEWS
USA – FOOTBALL: AFP PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 08 Jul 2026
Argentina produce epic World Cup fightback to beat Egypt, reach quarters
ATLANTA, 08 JULY 2026 (AFP)— Argentina staged a stunning comeback from 2-0 down to avoid crashing out of the World Cup at the hands of Egypt on Tuesday, as Lionel Messi played his part in a 3-2 win to reach the quarter-finals.
The holders looked down and out when goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, either side of Messi having a penalty saved, put the Pharaohs in sight of a historic victory in Atlanta.
However, Cristian Romero’s header sparked the comeback as Argentina struck three times in the final 11 minutes plus stoppage time.
Messi smashed home the equaliser to score for a ninth consecutive World Cup game and retake the lead for the Golden Boot with eight this tournament.
Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround with a superb header two minutes into stoppage time.
At the end, Messi shed tears of joy as he embraced his teammates.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said: “I’m really emotional right now. What a group of players, man.”
Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir, who had an inspired game, was heartbroken. “We were so close to victory,” he said. “Small details make the difference in the big games. We’re sad because we had the match in our hands.”
Egypt were left furious after a number of controversial calls went against them, including a disallowed second-half goalf, and a member of their coaching staff was red-carded after the winning goal.
But despite a second almighty scare against African opposition, Argentina will face either Colombia or Switzerland in the last eight on Saturday.
Scaloni attempted to refresh a side that looked dead on their feet in the closing stages of a 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the last 32 on Friday.
Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez came in from the team that started in Miami, but Argentina got off to another slow start.
Marwan Attia’s deep cross to the back post was powered home by Yasser.
Argentina had the chance to level five minutes later when Tagliafico was wiped out by Haissem Hassan inside the box.
However, there was another chapter to Messi’s misery from the penalty spot at World Cups.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or’s strike was tentative and Shoubir flew to his left to save, meaning Messi has now missed four of his eight non-shootout penalties at World Cups. He also became the first player to miss two in a single tournament, having also failed to hit the target against Austria in the group stages.
The penalty save was just the start of Shoubir’s inspired afternoon.
Alexis Mac Allster’s powerful header from point-blank range was next to be parried by the Al Ahly stopper.
Shoubir then produced one of the saves of the tournament to prevent Alvarez’s shot finding the bottom corner.
Egypt thought they had doubled their lead on the hour mark after a brilliant counter-attack.
Mohamed Salah played in Mostafa Ziko, who dinked the ball perfectly over the onrushing Emi Martinez.
However, Egyptian celebrations were cut short by a hugely controversial VAR intervention for a foul on Lisandro Martinez, just outside the Egypt box, at the start of the build-up to the goal.
The decision finally fired up the majority Argentine crowd, but they were silenced once more moments later by another blistering Egyptian break.
Salah again led the charge before feeding Hassan and his cross was swept in by Zico.
Argentina looked like a beaten side with Messi among those who head was bowed during the second-half drinks break.
Yet Romero’s header — that Shoubir just failed to keep out — sparked a remarkable revival as the defending champions hauled themselves off the canvas.
Moments later a dazzling run by Messi teed up Lautaro Martinez, who headed just wide and Messi was to have his moment of redemption seven minutes from time.
Gonzalo Montiel fed the ball back for his captain to strike sweetly on the half volley.
Shoubir again got a touch but couldn’t get it out as the ball cannonned in off the bar for Messi’s 21st World Cup goal.
Then Fernandez’s bullet header from Lautaro Martinez’s cross completed the fightback and Argentina’s relief was on full display after the final whistle…PACNEWS
