NRL Las Vegas 2025: Storm are out, Panthers, Sharks, Raiders and Warriors are in

The Melbourne Storm have withdrawn from the NRL’s 2025 launch party leaving four teams locked in for the code’s second big push into the USA market.

The Melbourne Storm have officially withdrawn from being part of the NRL’s Las Vegas launch party 2025 - leaving four clubs to kick-off next season in the US.

The Panthers, Sharks, Raiders and Warriors have all but secured a ticket to the NRL’s second instalment of showcasing the game to America.

The NRL are pushing to formally announce the four clubs within the next fortnight.

Long considered a contender to be part of the NRL’s US odyssey, this masthead has obtained confirmation from the Storm that they have withdrawn from the race, citing the terms and conditions of the deal as an overwhelming factor in the decision.

“The Melbourne Storm has advised the NRL it will not participate in the opening round of the 2025 season in Las Vegas,’’ Storm CEO Justin Rodski said in a statement.

“Storm had expressed interest in being involved in the 2025 fixture but having reviewed the proposed terms and conditions provided by the NRL and considered all other factors, the club has instead decided to focus on its preparation closer to home.

“We are always looking at new ways to help grow our club and the game more broadly.

“While we are supportive of the NRL’s vision for growth and expansion internationally, the time is not right for Storm to head to Vegas in 2025.

“Having played two trial matches away from Victoria in 2024, including the groundbreaking trial match in Fiji, the club will concentrate efforts on its local members, fans and participants.

“We are more than happy to discuss future opportunities with the NRL, whether that is in Vegas, Fiji or other markets where there is opportunity for the game to grow and for the Storm to be involved.’’