As of January 17, 2025, there have been no official announcements or credible reports confirming that Andrew Abdo, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rugby League (NRL), has approved a handshake contract valued at $789.5 million. While the NRL has engaged in significant financial agreements in the past, such as broadcasting deals and expansions, no information is available regarding a contract of this specific amount.
Andrew Abdo, who assumed the role of NRL CEO in 2020, has overseen various transformative initiatives within the league. For instance, he has been instrumental in the NRL’s expansion efforts, describing such developments as “transformative deals” that present substantial opportunities for the sport.
Additionally, under Abdo’s leadership, the NRL secured a significant free-to-air television deal with the Nine Network in December 2021. This agreement was considered a major win for the league, ensuring extensive coverage and financial stability.
Despite these substantial deals, there is no verified information regarding a $789.5 million handshake contract approved by Andrew Abdo. It’s important to note that handshake agreements, while symbolizing mutual understanding, are typically not legally binding without formal documentation. Therefore, any such significant financial commitment would likely be formalized through official contracts and publicly disclosed by the NRL.
In summary, while Andrew Abdo has played a pivotal role in securing major deals for the NRL, there is no evidence to support the claim of a $789.5 million handshake contract as of the current date.
