Inside the Transaction: The Wigan Warriors’ historic trek to Las Vegas through the Super League’s procurement.
Like any good bargain, it all began with a random email and a few glasses of wine.
Like the rest of rugby league, Kris Radlinski was eager to watch what would happen during the NRL’s historic inaugural double-header in Las Vegas. Though there was concern all around, Radlinski knew one thing for sure: he wanted in when it became almost immediately apparent that it would be a success.
Radlinski spent many hours on March Saturday strategizing how he could push the door open for Super League overall, not just Wigan Warriors. And he took a chance later that night after having a few beers.
“Watching it the morning the games were on, it felt like a big deal,” Radlinski says to Love Rugby League. “It felt different, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it for the majority of the day.”
“Although it may sound absurd, I immediately sent an email to Peter V’landys, whose concept Vegas was. I also mentioned that our club is very ambitious and that I would love to contribute to the project. That evening,
In less than a day, V’landys responded with the information Radlinski was hoping to hear: Australia expressed interest in allowing Super League to join the group in 2025.
Despite rumors that Wigan and Warrington had approved an agreement weeks ago, it has taken months and months of planning and preparation. This was not a deal that was made quickly.
There were a lot of hoops to clear since Super League’s participation in the NRL’s premier event is so complicated.
Radlinski says, “We didn’t sign the deal until six days ago.” That demonstrates to you all that has been thought through and important factors.
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“From all angles
“Fitzy (Karl Fitzpatrick) is an ideas man; we get together every month, record everything in our diaries, and discuss the concepts and difficulties in the game. One of the main things for me was to work with him.
It makes sense for them to participate when you consider everything, including the Sam Burgess impact. Collaborating with them at Wembley was outstanding as well. As clubs, we’re really tight; even if we compete against one another off the field, we get along well together.
Although this contract is extremely exciting for the Super League, Wigan as a club is not without danger. Notwithstanding the glitter of Vegas, they are risking losing a home game.
We’ll be busy because there’s a lot involved, but I’d rather be busy working on this. We have a fantastic chance to redefine the boundaries of what we believe is achievable.
In order to potentially offset that financial risk and make sure Wigan not only makes money commercially and in sectors like retail, but also opens up new chances for the club like never before, Radlinski will drive home this message to all of Wigan’s departments.
Considering how the Super League match is billed on the NRL, the amount of production that it will receive is equally intriguing: “How it’s presented on TV will be a big thing.”
