“After a record-breaking kick-off to the season in Las Vegas, rugby league was again the most watched sport in the country and attendances across the season were the highest on record. The women’s game continues to forge ahead in leaps and bounds and the international game is flourishing on the back of a highly successful Pacific Championships.”

Almost 4.8 million fans attended matches across all competitions to set a new benchmark for the game, up from 3.8 million fans in 2018. That takes the overall league fan base to 11 million adults.

The NRL is also broadening its asset base with the acquisitions of the IBIS Styles Port Macquarie Hotel and Mantra Terrace Hotel in Brisbane last year.

“These results are a vindication of the Commission’s vision for growth and investment in every level of the game and it is pleasing to see the greatest game for all in such wonderful health,” V’landys said.

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NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the game will emerge from a record 2024 with an outstanding platform for growth.

“We are extremely proud of the 2024 results with revenue growth, record fan interest, new assets, well-funded and successful NRL clubs and state leagues and a booming participation ecosystem setting us up for a bigger and better 2025,” Abdo said.

“With club licensing and state funding agreements secured, the commission will continue its focus on key growth areas including investment in grassroots and income-generating assets, as well as supporting the game’s strategy in the Pacific.

“We are looking forward to working together with the members and our loyal partners across the game to continue growing the number-one sport in Australia and the Pacific by delivering an even bolder season kick-off in Las Vegas, an expanded women’s game with a 12-team NRLW competition, and building the largest sporting community via touch, tackle, tag and new recreational formats.”