NRL and Super League partnership talks stall before World Cup start

Negotiations between the NRL and Super League aimed at finalizing a partnership before the 2026 Rugby League World Cup have failed to reach a conclusion. The deal was expected to be completed on Thursday, but no agreement was presented, and the NRL has paused discussions for a potential revisit in 2028. Most Super League clubs backed the deal, which was projected to last five years and be worth $57 million, although some members raised concerns. Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont criticized the negotiation tactics of NRL's executive chair, Peter V'landys, emphasizing the need for trust. England's national team is set to compete against Tonga, with a focus on impressing NRL executives.

• 2:56 AMZero Tackle NRL — V’landys and Super League partnership fails to finalise agreement