The saving grace that could keep Magic Round in Brisbane

The NRL’s Magic Round has been exclusively held in Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium since its inception in 2019.

But could the festival of Rugby League be on the move?

Taking inspiration from the Super League’s Magic Weekend, the three-day event, which now features a women’s State of Origin match on Thursday, has proven to be a popular hit with fans.

It’s also been a roaring success financially, with the 2023 edition bringing in $41.1 million to the local economy, according to the Queensland Government.

With its success and the existing contract between the Queensland Government and the NRL expiring in 2027, there is already speculation about the event’s future.

Already, Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski said on SEN he’d be open to the concept moving to Victoria.

But as SENQ's Peter Fegan notes, the NRL may look to move the event to Western Australia to help generate interest in the newly established Perth Bears.

“I think the issue Brisbane has is that the NRL has made a significant investment in Western Australia (and) the Perth Bears,” Fegan explained on SENQ Breakfast.

“I don't see how Perth is going to be successful, but if there's one way that they can make it successful and invite people to follow rugby league over there is to host Magic Round in Perth.

“So, I think Perth is the big risk, and that's where we may lose it.”

With the contract nearing expiry, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has already entered into talks about extending the deal.

But as Fegan added, there could be another reason as to why they might stay in the Sunshine State.

“It's also worth noting what did the NRL do?” he continued.

“They made a significant investment here in Brisbane and bought a pub called Gambaro's, which cost them $50 million.

“Now, you don't have to be a genius to figure out that if you buy a pub for $50 million, you have to pay it off.

“So that may be our saving grace, and the fact that we are about to become the Olympic city.

“This all comes down to (Queensland Premier) David Crisafulli, over the weekend, with Peter V'landys and what he can throw at them.”

Magic Round starts on Friday with the Sharks taking on the Bulldogs.

And SEN will be in amongst the Magic Round festivities with various live broadcasts at The Star Brisbane, Winghaus Bowen Hills and Piksie’s Bar throughout the week. 

CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULE HERE