The Northern Territory is gearing up to welcome the Dolphins for their first-ever Darwin home game on Friday, 17 April, marking the beginning of their partnership as the Territory Dolphins. A series of free fan events and match‑day activities will give Territorians the chance to celebrate this milestone and connect with the NRL's newest team ahead of their clash with the Penrith Panthers at TIO Stadium.
The Dolphins' arrival marks an exciting new chapter for elite rugby league in the Northern Territory, strengthening community connection, boosting tourism opportunities with travelling team fans and giving local fans access to world‑class sport on home turf.
Festivities for the 2026 NRL Darwin match will bring fans closer to the Dolphins across a packed weekend of Territory‑style entertainment.
Fans can get an early look at the team during the Captain's Run at TIO Stadium on Thursday, 16 April, from 8:30am to 9:30am (gates open 8:00am). This free session offers a behind‑the‑scenes view of the Dolphins' final preparations. Entry is via the Ah Mat Gate, and tickets must be registered through Ticketek.
Game day kicks off on Friday, 17 April, with gates opening at 4:00pm ahead of the 7:30pm match between the Dolphins and Panthers. With the Grandstand already close to selling out, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early.
The celebrations continue Saturday, 18 April, with a free signing and photo session at NRLNT Stadium, from 10:00am to 11:00am. Supporters can meet players, collect autographs and take photos, with no registration required.
The Darwin NRL match is delivered by Tourism and Events NT on behalf of the Northern Territory Government. Tickets for the Dolphins' first Darwin match, and registration for the Captain's Run, are available at: ntdolphins.com.au here
Quotes from Tourism and Events NT, Executive Director of Events, Aimee Luxton:
"The Dolphins' arrival marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for elite rugby league in the Northern Territory. These games bring world‑class footy to the Territory and deliver a major boost for local businesses, with visiting fans filling hotels, cafés and venues right across town.
"We're proud to welcome the Dolphins to their new home in the Top End and look forward to sharing the Territory's unique energy, culture and hospitality with them and their supporters."
Quotes from Dolphins CEO, Terry Reader:
"The Dolphins are excited to be heading to the Top End and becoming the Northern Territory's favourite NRL team.
"We thoroughly enjoyed our time there when we defeated the Eels back in 2024, and now we look forward to entertaining locals and our travelling fans again.
"The trip for the game will become an annual pilgrimage for our supporters and we can't wait to see TIO Stadium decked out in our colours of red, white and gold."
Quotes from NRL NT General Manager, Tony Crowe:
"The opportunity to bring the Dolphins to Darwin as the Territory Dolphins is about far more than just an NRL match, it's about inspiring communities right across the Northern Territory. When our young players see elite athletes training, visiting schools and engaging with our clubs, it reinforces that rugby league pathways exist for them right here in the Territory.
"This week of activities is designed to connect the Dolphins with our local clubs, schools and community programs, helping grow the game and create lasting memories for Territorians while showcasing the passion for rugby league that exists across the Top End."
