All-conquering Hull KR will lose money on their Las Vegas adventure, but chief executive Paul Lakin insists they’ve planned for that and it isn’t a problem.
The reigning Super League, Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge champions meet Leeds Rhinos at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday in what is one of their 13 home fixtures.
Speaking in Vegas ahead of the game, Lakin said he has not received any complaints from fans about that and stressed the benefits of the trip outweigh any potential financial hit.
The Robins’ chief reckons too much is being made of the financial aspect and vowed: “It’s fine; it’s not a big loss to us, it’s a small loss, but we budgeted to make a small loss.
“It’s fine, I never had one email or message from a single supporter saying they’re losing a home game.
“Financially, they’ve accepted this is what is happening this season. Our members have been good enough to accept it for a year. It’s all positives.”
The famous Las Vegas strip has been awash with red and white all week and Lakin added: “There’s other elements to it too.
“We’ve got top players and the top players want to play in the biggest games and in the best stadiums in the world.
“If we’re going to stay a top club year after year, we have to create that platform. A year ago, I had players coming into my office saying ‘are we going to Vegas’ and ‘we need to go to Vegas’.
“Every fan that has come out, will say it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We won’t be doing it again.”
Saturday’s game comes nine days after Hull KR won the world title against Aussie champions Brisbane Broncos.
“Coming out here as world champions, we need to put on a show and let’s hope we do that,” Lakin added.
“It’s like home from home in certain quarters here, with all our fans. It’s an incredible atmosphere and we’re looking forward to it.”
Serious About Rugby League’s coverage of Leeds Rhinos in Las Vegas is in association with Betfred Super League. Saturday’s showdown at Allegiant Stadium is an early highlight of a packed year of club rugby league action which also includes the Challenge Cup final at Wembley on May 30, Magic Weekend’s blockbuster return to Everton FC’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on July 4-5 and the Super League Grand Final on October 3 at Old Trafford. Experience live Super League. League Hits Different. To guarantee your place, visit Super League | Tickets
