Hull FC confirm 2027 Las Vegas decision as chairman releases statement

Hull FC have confirmed they will not be partaking in the Rugby League Las Vegas event in 2027.

Rumours were that it would be the Black and Whites heading to the Sin City next year, following the success for the Wigan-Warrington and Leeds-Hull KR games over the past two seasons, however a statement from club chairman Andrew Thirkill has revealed they will not be going.

A decision on which teams are going is said to be announced in the coming weeks if not days, with a number of clubs including Bradford Bulls hoping to be selected to represent Super League on the biggest stage.

The Bulls laid out their intentions to be part of the rugby league festival at the end of last month, with CEO Jason Hirst saying the club have a “genuine desire to represent Betfred Super League.”

Should they be successful, their opponents in Vegas will not be FC, who have different priorities at this moment in time, with the focus needing to be on on-field performance.

The Airlie Birds will have a new head coach next season, with Steve McNamara joining the club from Warrington Wolves. The next 12 months are a key period in the club’s transition to becoming a top Super League club again, and a trip to Vegas would only distract them from their goals.

Hull FC withdraw from Las Vegas race as statement shared

The statement reads in full:

“Hull FC can confirm that, following detailed consideration, the club have taken the decision to not participate in Betfred Super League’s Las Vegas fixture in 2027.

“Whilst we recognise the ambition behind the concept and the potential long-term benefits of promoting the sport on a global stage, the club has concluded that at this time, it would not represent the right decision for Hull FC.

“The club has determined that its priority is to focus on improving on-field performance and strengthening its position in the league.

“The club remains supportive of initiatives that help grow the sport, and wishes the very best of luck to the two sides who represent Betfred Super League at the event in 2027.”