Could Pope’s visit to Sydney bring NRL final to Auckland?

It was announced earlier this year that Pope Leo had indicated he would be at the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028 in Sydney, The Catholic Weekly reported.

The Catholic event is expected to draw very large crowds from across Australia and overseas. Several Australian cities have put their hands up to host the NRL grand final that year, if a venue change is needed.

New Zealand will host its first State of Origin rugby league match next year at Auckland’s Eden Park, and the city is hopeful that could be a springboard to hosting the grand final the following year.

“It would be fantastic if the NRL grand final was in Auckland in 2028 and we’re all looking forward to next year’s State of Origin game at Eden Park, which is sure to be a huge success,” said Auckland mayor Wayne Brown.

“Auckland has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to deliver world-class events, supported by outstanding venues, a new city rail link and a fan base that embraces major sporting occasions,” said Annie Dundas from Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the events arm of Auckland Council.

“Auckland would naturally be very interested in exploring opportunities that align with our strategy of attracting major events that deliver economic, tourism and community benefits for the region,” she said.

New South Wales premier Chris Minns has indicated he wants the grand final to remain in Sydney. 

FULL STORY

Two new cit­ies join race to host NRL GF (By Adrian Proszenko/Sydney Morning Herald/Pressreader)

Sydney to welcome Pope Leo in 2028 (The Catholic Weekly)