Amy Shark, Dave Gleeson and Phil Jamieson perform at 2026 NRL grand final

Prior to the NRL grand final, retired rugby league star Jai Arrow and former Wallaby Nathan Charles were honored for their bravery, as both were diagnosed with motor neuron disease this year. The tribute, led by Australian artists Amy Shark, Dave Gleeson, and Phil Jamieson, saw Arrow and Charles complete a lap of the ground while thousands of fans united by making the arrow gesture.

Arrow's diagnosis forced his retirement, leaving a significant impact on the Australian sporting community. The tribute featured performances from Shark, Gleeson, and Jamieson, with Shark beginning with You'll Never Walk Alone and the event concluding with The Best by Tina Turner. NRL Hall of Fame member Ray Warren praised Jai's resilience and bravery, highlighting his inspiration to others facing difficult times.

The NRL pledged $1 million to help underprivileged children play rugby league, in honor of Arrow's dedication to the sport.