Bulldogs and Warriors to join NRLW in 2025 for expanded season…
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and New Zealand Warriors will join an expanded NRLW season in 2025, bringing the number of teams in the competition to 12.
NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo confirmed the 12-team expansion on Thursday, saying it was an exciting part of rugby league’s strategic growth plan.
“This is an exciting moment for the Telstra Women’s Premiership, as we continue to build on the momentum built from previous seasons,” Abdo said.
“The return of the Warriors is an important strategic boost for the women’s game in New Zealand, while the Bulldogs are adding the final step to their program after years of strong investment in the women’s game.”
The Warriors had previously been part of the NRLW competition, but had to withdraw in 2021 amid difficult Covid restrictions.
The Warriors and Bulldogs will join other NRLW teams including the Knights, Broncos, Roosters, Eels, Tigers, Sharks, Dragons, Cowboys, Raiders, and Titans.
The addition of two new teams will see the NRLW competition extend to an 11-week regular season in 2025, with a four team finals series played over two weeks.
Chair of the Australian Rugby League Comission Peter V’landys said the expansion was about providing certainty for the future of the women’s game.
“The women’s game has gone to another level with the skill level and quality of the games being extraordinary. This is evidenced by the popularity of the NRLW competition,” V’landys said.
“Last year over a million viewers tuned in to watch the NRLW Grand Final, and we are looking forward to an even bigger and better competition in 2025. Investments into participation and pathways will ensure that new teams are competitive.”
