NRL Dolphins lock in Darwin as annual NRL Destination until 2028

The Dolphins are set to bring premiership NRL back to the Top End, with a newly inked partnership confirming they will play an annual match in Darwin from 2026 to 2028.

A three-year agreement, secured by the Northern Territory Government in partnership with the NRL, will bring top-tier rugby league action to the Territory while showcasing the stunning destination that is Darwin to sports fans.

Under the deal, the Dolphins will play annually at Darwin’s TIO Stadium with the home game to increase tourism visitation. Interstate fans can enjoy an experience like no other from swimming in waterfalls at Litchfield National Park or getting the adrenaline pumping with a jet ski experience or crocodile encounter by day, and by night barracking for the Dolphins.

This announcement follows the Dolphins’ successful 2024 Darwin debut, where they defeated the Parramatta Eels 44–16 in front of a passionate crowd of local and interstate fans. Their return further cements the Top End as a growing hotspot for fans to experience live premium sport in a unique destination.

Dolphins NRL Chief Executive Officer Terry Reader said: “The Dolphins know the Northern Territory well after playing a game there last year and have also been involved in several community engagement tours there with existing partners over the past two years.”

“We are excited about locking in three NRL matches in Darwin over the next three years and the opportunities that will provide us to continually engage with the people of the NT,” said Mr Reader.

The Dolphins’ matches will join the Northern Territory’s standout major events calendar, which includes Parrtjima – A Festival in Light, BASSINTHEGRASS, the betr Darwin Triple Crown, and MXGP of Australia. Visitors are encouraged to the NT through these unique events, with travellers also taking the opportunity to explore the region and culture from sunset markets by the beach in Darwin to the breathtaking Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa.