The NRL Grand Final Entertainment Called Off

Photo: Getty Images

Tones and I will not perform at this year's NRL Grand Final after negotiations with the league broke down, with the singer's management now revealing the reason she was unable to accept the offer.

The Australian singer had been approached to perform at the October 4 Grand Final at Accor Stadium, but her management says an offer was only presented on September 5 and that she already had a prior commitment in the United States with Macklemore.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Tones and I's management said the singer had "explored all avenues" to make the performance work, but ultimately could not commit.

"Nothing was signed or confirmed in writing," the statement said.

"Due to the last-minute nature and prior commitments by Tones, we were unable to accept the offer."

The management team also wished the NRL "nothing but the very best" for the event.

The clarification comes after reports that negotiations had broken down over the NRL's desire for Tones and I to perform her 2019 global hit Dance Monkey. However, neither the singer's management nor NRL chairman Peter V'landys has confirmed that the song was the reason for the collapse in negotiations.

V'landys announced on Tuesday that the NRL would abandon plans for a major pre-match performer rather than search for a replacement.

Instead, the league plans to redirect money earmarked for entertainment towards grassroots rugby league.

V'landys said he would rather use the money to help children who cannot afford to play rugby league than spend it on a short musical performance.

"Our game sells itself," V'landys said, adding that fans attend the Grand Final for rugby league rather than a concert.

The decision represents a significant change from recent Grand Finals, which have featured major performers including Teddy Swims last year, while Tina Turner and Billy Idol have also performed at previous deciders.

Despite the decision to scrap the headline act, V'landys has indicated that there will still be entertainment throughout Grand Final day, including a substantial half-time program. He also revealed the NRL has received approaches from Australian performers, as well as interest from an international artist.

Tones and I has not directly addressed the dispute publicly. However, she appeared to respond indirectly on Instagram by highlighting Australian artists including G Flip, Baker Boy, Budjerah, Ruel and Kaiit, writing that there were "incredible artists" in Australia who deserved opportunities.

The 2026 NRL Grand Final will be played at Accor Stadium on October 4, with the league now set to proceed without a headline pre-match performance.