Hull FC lodge Las Vegas expression of interest amid potential complication

Hull FC are one of the Super League clubs who have put themselves forward to be part of next season’s rugby league event in Las Vegas.

Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves went head to head earlier this month in the first Super League game to be a part of the NRL’s takeover of the Allegiant Stadium and the two sides certainly made a strong impression. With the English support making themselves seen and heard over the course of the week in Sin City, the NRL has asked Super League to be on next year’s bill.

As such, the RFL has invited Super League clubs to apply to be involved in 2026, with a number of outfits thought to be keen. Hull KR, Leeds Rhinos and Leigh Leopards are all known to have had representatives at this year’s game and the trio are keen on the showpiece event.

St Helens have been strongly linked with the fixture in the States, too, with the Merseyside outfit seen as one who could take big numbers over to Sin City in support. However, Serious About RL understands that Hull have put their name in the hat with an expression of interest lodged by the Black and Whites.

Whether Hull would be willing to give up a home game, and the financial benefits that come from it, to be involved remains to be seen, though. It is understood clubs have had the option to apply to be the home or away team in Vegas, with the benefits of being the away team being clear to see.

For the event to go ahead a Super League side will have to give up a home fixture and therefore, it’s fair to say that those who are willing to bite the financial bullet will stand the best chance of getting the nod and following in the footsteps of Wigan and Warrington.

Of course, quality is another key factor with the NRL no doubt keen to showcase the most high profile Super League game possible to an American audience as it looks to grow the sport.

The expression of interest comes after John Cartwright confirmed to Hull Live that Hull FC would be keen.

“As coaches and as a squad, you want to play in those games,” Cartwright said. “They make you better—playing in front of bigger crowds and the pressure of the game—it’s another level, and that’s where players improve: in those pressure situations, so we’d be more than happy for it.

“I’m pretty sure Andrew, David, and Richie will be talking about it. It’s a great opportunity to put the club on the world stage. A lot of factors will come into it, no doubt, but from our perspective, it would be wonderful if they could make it happen.”