Exclusive: huge rule change revealed to give Raiders crucial hosting rights…

Exclusive: huge rule change revealed to give Raiders crucial hosting rights…

 

 

Exclusive: Huge Rule Change Revealed to Give Raiders Crucial Hosting Rights

 

In a major development that could reshape the NRL finals landscape, the Canberra Raiders are set to benefit from a newly introduced rule change that grants them home-ground advantage under specific conditions. The NRL has confirmed an amendment to the finals hosting criteria, prioritising higher-ranked non-Sydney teams for hosting rights if they finish in the top four — even if they are drawn against a Sydney club.

 

Previously, logistical and crowd considerations often saw neutral venues or Sydney-based stadiums selected, disadvantaging clubs like Canberra. But with the Raiders charging towards a top-two finish, the rule change ensures that GIO Stadium will play host should they qualify for Week 1 or 2 of the finals.

 

This change is seen as a reward for regional consistency and strong crowd support, with Canberra averaging near-capacity attendances in 2025. Raiders coach Ricky Stuart welcomed the move, calling it “a win for fairness and the fans who’ve stuck with us through everything.”

 

With a genuine shot at a home preliminary final, the Green Machine’s finals hopes just got a significant boost — both on the field and at the turnstiles. Rival teams now know: to beat the Raiders, they’ll have to do it in Canberra.