NRL grand final loses headline act for pre-match entertainment

The National Rugby League (NRL) has announced it will forgo pre-match entertainment at its grand final this year following talks with Australian artist Tones And I breaking down. Instead, the league is proposing to use the $1 million budget, typically allocated for a pre-game performance, to improve funding for grassroots rugby league competitions.

NRL Commission chair Peter V Landys expressed his preference for investing in underprivileged young players over the expense of a 11-minute musical show, prioritizing their ability to play the sport over a pop concert. The NRL's decision signifies a significant shift from tradition, where the grand final has often seen notable performances from international artists like Teddy Swims, Billy Idol, and Tina Turner.

V Landys did not specify the reason behind the negotiations' collapse, only noting that Tones And I refused to perform the song 'Dance Monkey.' The Sydney Morning Herald suggested the disagreement stemmed from the NRL's insistence on Tones And I performing the song, which she declined. The grand final's host rights are competed for by state governments, currently held by New South Wales, but it remains unclear if the relevant authorities were consulted regarding this decision.