‘The time is not right’: Why the Melbourne Storm has decided against going to Las Vegas in 2025

They were one of the favourites to open the 2025 season in Las Vegas, but a juggernaut club has officially withdrawn from the race.

The Melbourne Storm has pulled out of the race to play in next year’s Las Vegas extravaganza. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

The Storm has officially pulled out of the race for a spot in Las Vegas next year despite being considered one of the favourites to open the 2025 season in America.

The NRL made history earlier this year with a highly successful double-header at Allegiant Stadium featuring the Rabbitohs, Sea Eagles, Broncos and Roosters as part of a long-term commitment to play games in the region.

It’s still unclear which clubs will be chosen to play there next year, with the Panthers, Raiders, Sharks and Warriors mentioned as teams leading the race to play in Vegas, with the NRL expected to make a decision soon to give fans enough time to start planning their trips.

What we do know is that the Storm won’t be there after the club announced on Friday that it had reconsidered its options based on new information that had come to light.

The double-header in Las Vegas this year was a roaring success. Picture: Grant Trouville

“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,” the statement read.

The Storm remains open to playing there in the future but will focus for now on Fiji having played a trial game against the Knights there a few months ago.

The Storm will skip Las Vegas next year and will focus on growing the game in Fiji. Picture: Pita Simpson/Getty Images

“We are always looking at new ways to help grow our club and the game more broadly,” Storm chief executive Justin Rodski said.

“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.”