Northern Territory NRL fixture secured for three years

A new three-year contract with NRL team Parramatta Eels stretches the Northern Territory Government’s partnership with the ‘Territory’ Eels to more than a decade and delivers a range of benefits for the Territory.

Northern Territory NRL fans will enjoy three more years of  NRL action, with the Parramatta Eels set to play in Darwin every year until 2025.

Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Jim Sarantinos advised “being the “Territory Eels” has been part of our identity for the past nine years and we are pleased this partnership will continue for another three.

“The further commitment demonstrates how much both organisations value the partnership.

“We have built some great connections and relationships in the NT and this extension will only strengthen them.

“We hope our visits can continue to grow the popularity of Rugby League in the Territory.”

 In a coup for the Northern Territory, the Parramatta will host NRL power club the Brisbane Broncos in a blockbuster at TIO Stadium on Friday, 21st April 2023.

Aside from providing Territorians with the chance to see first-class athletes in action, the matches also draw thousands of sporting fans to the Top End from across Australia, which boosts the local economy. Last year’s clash drew more than 10,000 fans.

Matches will be beamed across the nation via the live broadcast, showcasing the Territory to interstaters, while the community engagement initiatives that the Eels and their opposing teams take part in adds to the teams’ time in the Territory.

NT Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby notes “League is incredibly popular across the Territory, and we are proud to be bringing the Eels and Broncos to the Top End so Territorians can watch professional sporting fixtures in their own backyard.

“These events are not only loved by fans but also provide a nice boost to our local economy.”

Tickets for next year’s Eels v Broncos game will go on sale later this year.