when does the nrl start in 2026

The 2026 NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off on Sunday 1 March 2026 , with the Las Vegas double‑header serving as the official start of the season.

Quick Scoop: Key Dates 🏉

• Season kick-off: Sunday 1 March 2026 (Las Vegas games open the NRL season).

• Follow-on opening round games: The rest of Round 1 continues in Australia the following week, from Thursday 5 March 2026 in the evening (AEDT).

• Location of season opener: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, as part of the Rugby League in Las Vegas event.

So if you’re wondering “when does the NRL start in 2026?” for planning your viewing or trip, circle 1 March 2026 as the official season start, with Aussie-based games rolling out from 5 March 2026.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.