16,000 fans create incredible Fremont Street night

Over 16,000 Rugby League fans attended the traditional Fan Fest at Fremont Street on Thursday night in Las Vegas as preparations for three huge games at Allegiant Stadium this Saturday began to ramp up.

The event was hailed as the biggest yet by the NRL, this year is the third year running they have brought two games to Nervada. Leeds Rhinos were first to go down the red carpet and take to the stage. Leeds Rhinos captain Ash Handley, who confirmed he will return to action on Saturday. said to the crowd, "The support all week has been absolutely incredible and it is wonderful to see so many English fans here tonight. We are looking forward to putting on a show on Saturday night."

"It's great for the fans, great for the players, great for the whole sport." After yesterday's media launch they raised the stakes for the fan fest event on Fremont Street in Las Vegas tonight. My report for @itvcalendar pic.twitter.com/czMM7ztBAu

— Chris Dawkes (@chrisdawkesITV) February 27, 2026

Legendary winger Ryan Hall was greeted like a hero by both sets of fans. He summed up his feelings on stage, "It's a dream come true that Leeds will face Hull KR this Saturday, two clubs that I hold very dear. I am back in my original colours of blue and amber with Leeds now but I did really appreciate the four years I had at Hull KR. They say onnce a Robin, always a Robin, which is true but I am a Rhino again and we want to get the win on Saturday."

Head Coach Brad Arthur wrapped things up when he said, "We're so grateful to all the fans who have travelled over for this game, we have to make sure that we put a real spectacle on Saturday when we are the first game up. We wouldn't want it any other way to be taking on the World Champions and an incredible stadium and both teams bring out the best of each other. It is an opportunity that not many get the chance to be part of. We are grateful to be part of it."