NRL's South Sydney Rabbitohs fail in bid to move home venue

The South Sydney Rabbitohs’ bid to move their home games from Accor Stadium to the Allianz Stadium in Sydney's Moore Park has been rejected by the NSW Government.

The club had lobbied to relocate its home games from their current home at Sydney Olympic Park - to which they are committed under a contract that runs until the end of the decade - back to the Allianz Stadium, a move they argued would bring them closer to their traditional supporter base in South Sydney.

In its lobbying - which included a petition backed by fans, players and star fullback Latrell Mitchell - the club claimed that Accor Stadium and the surrounding precinct lacks atmosphere and affects its ability to make money.

However, NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper advised yesterday that the proposed move had been rejected.

Rabbitohs Chief Executive Blake Solly expressed his disappointment, stating on social media "we strongly believe a move to Allianz Stadium will allow us to provide members, fans and sponsors with an enhanced game-day experience, premium facilities, improved transport access, and centre proximity for our supporter base, returning to our Heartland in South Sydney."

Despite the rejection, the Rabbitohs will be permitted to host “two or three” games annually at Allianz Stadium, with the rest of their home fixtures to remain at Accor Stadium - a venue they have called home since 2006.

The Rabbitohs currently play nine matches per season at Accor Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park under a contract that runs until the end of the decade.

NSW Premier Chris Minns subsequently hinted at “exciting announcements” for the Moore Park precinct, although he did not directly address the Rabbitohs’ situation.

The decision ensures that Allianz Stadium will remain primarily the home venue of the Sydney Roosters, South Sydney’s long-time cross-city rivals.

Image: Sydney's Allianz Stadium.