THE BOARDROOM: NRL expansion and the business of rugby league ft. John Ribot

THE BOARDROOM: NRL expansion and the business of rugby league ft. John Ribot

Author: Zero Tackle July 7, 2026 Duration: 40:57

The Boardroom’s Ryan Hoffman (Melbourne Storm, New Zealand Warriors, New South Wales, Australia) is joined by renowned rugby league administrator John Ribot for a deep dive into building an NRL club from the ground up.

Having been the founding CEO of the Brisbane Broncos, Melbourne Storm and the ceased Australian Super League, Ribot reflects and dissects the travails, tribulations and intricacies of expansion ahead of Perth and Papua New Guinea’s arrival.

Hosted by NRL premiership players Ryan Hoffman and Chad Townsend, The Boardroom NRL Podcast takes a wide-lens look at the state of rugby league, delivering big-picture, no-nonsense views on the NRL.


⬇️ THE AGENDA:

00:00 Welcome to the Boardroom

01:58 Where the game is now

04:26 Mandate for Super League

14:05 Denver Broncos story

17:07 Brisbane Broncos

18:31 Expansion in Rugby League

19:24 Perth Bears

22:26 PNG Chiefs

23:47 Starting at the Melbourne Storm

25:39 20th NRL team?

29:44 Most important in starting a franchise

30:32 Chris Anderson

31:54 Peter V'landys verdict

32:56 NRLW expansion

37:47 Record-Breaking TV deal


Recorded on 19/06/2026


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For fans who live and breathe the weekly grind of the National Rugby League, the Zero Tackle NRL Podcast is your regular deep dive into the sport. This isn't just surface-level recap; it's the informed conversation you'd have with the most clued-in friend, straight from the team behind Australia's leading independent rugby league platform. Each episode unpacks the biggest stories, from on-field tactics and pivotal injuries to the contract whispers and managerial moves that shape the competition. You'll get clear-eyed analysis that separates hype from reality, alongside strong opinions that aren't afraid to challenge the mainstream narrative. It's the kind of comprehensive coverage that turns rumours into discussed topics and news into understanding, ensuring you're never just a passive spectator. Tune in to this podcast for a genuinely independent take on everything happening in the NRL, delivered with the authority and passion that comes from being fully immersed in the rugby league world every single day. Whether it's the fallout from a tight match, a controversial judiciary decision, or the long-term outlook for your club, the Zero Tackle team provides the context and insight that truly dedicated fans appreciate.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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