The National Rugby League (NRL) has officially confirmed the return of the Perth Bears, marking a significant expansion in the league's history. After 25 years of absence from the top-tier rugby league, the Bears will make their debut in the 2027 season, fulfilling a long-held dream for fans and the state of Western Australia.
On Thursday, May 8, 2025, WA Premier Roger Cook, flanked by ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, announced the long-awaited agreement that will see the Bears join the competition as its 18th team. This decision ends an 18-year push from the Western Australian government and rugby league supporters to reinstate a top-flight team in the state.
"Rugby league is the biggest sport in Australia and the Pacific, so a team in the economic powerhouse of Western Australia is a natural fit," V'landys stated during the announcement. He highlighted that the introduction of the Bears is not just about expanding the league, but also about tapping into the rich sporting culture of Western Australia.
The Bears’ return is particularly poignant for long-time supporters, as it signals the end of North Sydney's 25-year exile since their merger with Manly in 2000. Fans have endured numerous false starts and disappointments over the years, with hopes of a return dashed multiple times. The announcement was met with jubilation at North Sydney Leagues Club, where supporters gathered to celebrate this historic moment.
"It’s been a long time coming, having tried and failed, tried and failed, and now seeing it succeed for all the fans and the ex-players and supporters, it’s just tremendous," said Bears great Greg Florimo, who has been a vocal advocate for the club's reinstatement. The excitement was palpable as fans cheered and sang club anthems, reflecting their deep-rooted passion for the Bears.
The Perth Bears will play the majority of their home games at HBF Park, with plans to introduce rugby league into over 500 schools across Western Australia as part of a $65.6 million deal with the state government. This initiative aims to foster a new generation of rugby league fans and players in the region.
V'landys emphasized the importance of having a local presence in the club’s management, stating that the NRL will hold the license for at least the first five years before transitioning to a member-owned model. The board will consist of at least three local members, ensuring that the franchise remains connected to its community.
In terms of the team's identity, the Bears will retain their traditional colors and branding, which have been a significant part of their history since the club's inception in 1908. This commitment to heritage is vital for maintaining the loyalty of existing fans while also attracting new supporters in Perth.
As the NRL prepares for this expansion, there are plans to make key announcements regarding the inaugural coach and player signings in the coming weeks. Brad Arthur has emerged as a favorite for the coaching position, with former player Sam Burgess also expressing interest.
While the announcement has been largely celebrated, some skepticism remains regarding the financial implications for the state. The West Australian newspaper ran a controversial headline questioning the investment of taxpayer money into the franchise. However, V'landys defended the decision, asserting that the potential return on investment would significantly outweigh the initial costs.
"We’re going to have a massive return to the government here... our figure was a $50 million annual return," V'landys claimed, emphasizing the economic benefits that the Bears would bring to the region.
With the Bears set to return in 2027, the excitement is building among fans across Australia. The prospect of a fresh start in Perth, combined with the established fanbase from North Sydney, creates a unique opportunity for the club to thrive in a new environment.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, the anticipation is palpable. The Perth Bears are not just a team; they represent a revival of hope for loyal supporters who have waited decades for this moment. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but the spirit of rugby league in Western Australia is about to be reignited.
In the meantime, fans from both coasts are ready to embrace this new chapter, as the Bears prepare to carve out their legacy in the NRL. The future looks bright for rugby league in Perth, and with the Bears back in the fold, the excitement is only just beginning.
