By Christian Nicolussi
Sam Burgess insists US authorities will rubber stamp his visa and allow him to be in Las Vegas – he just doesn’t know exactly when.
The South Sydney legend, who coaches Warrington in the Super League, is yet to receive the green light to enter America for next Sunday’s rugby league extravaganza.
Several NRL players who have had matters dealt with by police, no matter how minor, have had to be interviewed by the US consulate before having their visas approved.
Manly’s Luke Brooks, South Sydney pair Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton, as well as Brisbane’s Reece Walsh were among the big names who had to visit the US consulate last year.
This year, players from the Warriors, Cronulla and Canberra, including their trio Josh Papalii, Tom Starling and Joe Tapine, were all formally interviewed before having their paperwork approved.
Burgess pleaded guilty to three driving offences in 2021, but avoided any conviction and completed a traffic offenders program.
Speaking after Warrington’s win over Catalans early on Saturday (AEDT), Burgess told Sky Sports: “I’m the optimist, I’ll get to Vegas. I’ll get there, it’s just when it is, that’s all.
Sam Burgess is sweating on his visa being approved in time for next weekend’s rugby league action in Las Vegas.Credit: Getty
“At the moment my visa application is in with the US Border Patrol.
“I’ve thanked everyone down at the US embassy down in London the past few days. I respect the process. It’s down to them and a bit of time.
“We’ll wait and see how it goes over the next 24 hours or 48 hours.
“We’re looking forward to the week … and it’s much nicer going there after a couple of wins.
“We’ll break down that game [against Catalans] on Saturday, then we jump on a flight Sunday. It will be a really enjoyable week for everyone. I really want everyone to soak it up and take something out of the experience. It’s about [putting in a good] performance next weekend.”
Should Burgess run out of time, or even be denied, assistants Martin Gleeson and Richard Marshall will take charge for the game against Super League champions Wigan. Wigan tuned up for Vegas with a 46-4 thumping of Hull FC.
Warrington are expected to hold a scrimmage with NRL premiers Penrith a couple of days before the four games – the Panthers play Cronulla, the New Zealand Warriors and Canberra clash, while the Jillaroos take on England – at Allegiant Stadium.
The NRL has already sold more than 40,000 tickets for the event, which was similar to last year’s attendance, and are confident they can surpass 50,000 fans.
George Williams was excellent for Warrington against Catalans, and is sure to enjoy the chance to catch up with his Canberra teammates while in Vegas.
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