Where to Watch National Rugby League (NRL) 2025 for FREE
The National Rugby League (NRL) is Australia’s most exciting and popular rugby league competition. With the 2025 season around the corner, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate another action-packed year, especially with teams like the Penrith Panthers looking for historic achievements.
The action kicks off on Sunday, March 2, 2025 (AEDT) and runs through Sunday, September 7, 2025, with the top eight teams battling it out in the finals.
Wondering where to watch all the action live? Good news for Australian fans—you can watch NRL live on 9Now at no cost!
Unfortunately, watching the NRL for free from outside Australia on 9Now can be tricky due to geographical restrictions. Thankfully, there’s a reliable solution: using a VPN.
This guide will walk you through the complete process of watching the NRL 2025 for free from anywhere using platforms like 9Now by leveraging a VPN service.
Quick Guide: Steps to Watch National Rugby League 2025 Live Online From Anywhere Using a VPN
Follow these simple steps to bypass geo-blocking and watch the NRL from your location:
- ✅ Choose a Reliable VPN Service: Subscribe to a VPN service known for streaming, such as ExpressVPN (61% off + 4 months free) or NordVPN.
- ✅ Install the VPN App: Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- ✅ Connect to an Australian Server: Launch the VPN app and connect to an Australian server.
- ✅ Visit 9Now’s Official Website: Go to 9Now and sign up for a free account if you haven’t already.
- ✅ Stream NRL Matches Live: Enjoy live streaming of NRL 2025 matches from anywhere for free!
🚫 Why Can’t I Watch National Rugby League on 9Now in My Region?
9Now is a popular Australian streaming platform, providing exclusive coverage of NRL matches. However, this service restricts access to viewers physically located within Australia only.
When you visit 9Now from outside Australia, you’ll typically receive an error message stating:
“Geoblocked. Access is not available in your area.”
When you attempt to access 9Now from overseas, the platform detects your non-Australian IP address and automatically blocks your access, resulting in an error message. This restriction is due to broadcast licensing agreements and geographical content distribution rights.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch National Rugby League on 9Now Outside Australia?
Using a VPN allows you to bypass these geo-restrictions easily. A VPN masks your IP address, making it seem like you’re accessing content from Australia.
VPNs allow you to change your virtual location to Australia, tricking 9Now into thinking you’re streaming from within the country, thus removing geographical restrictions instantly.
Besides 9Now, a VPN allows you to unblock numerous other geo-restricted platforms like Netflix Australia, Kayo Sports, Stan, BBC iPlayer, and more.
In summary, a VPN is your key to unlimited and secure access to NRL matches, no matter where you are in the world.
Best VPNs for Watching National Rugby League on 9Now
Choosing the right VPN is essential for high-quality streaming. Here are the top two recommended VPNs:
🥇 ExpressVPN – Top Recommended VPN for NRL Streaming
ExpressVPN is the #1 choice for streaming NRL, offering unmatched speed and reliability.
✨ ExpressVPN Key Features:
- 🚀 Ultra-fast Streaming Speeds: Enjoy seamless HD streaming without buffering.
- 🇦🇺 Multiple Australian Servers: Servers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
- 🔒 Robust Security & Privacy: AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer technology, and strict no-log policy.
- 📺 Multi-platform Compatibility: Available on PC, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, smart TVs, and more.
- 🌐 MediaStreamer (Smart DNS): Access 9Now even on devices without VPN app support (gaming consoles, smart TVs).
- 💬 24/7 Customer Support: Always available to assist via live chat.
🥈 NordVPN – Reliable & Affordable VPN for Streaming NRL
NordVPN is another excellent VPN for streaming 9Now from anywhere globally, combining security and speed at an affordable price.
✨ NordVPN Key Features:
- ⚡ Fast & Stable Connections: Offers NordLynx protocol for streaming without interruptions.
- 🇦🇺 190+ Australian Servers: Multiple options to easily bypass geo-blocking.
- 🛡️ Advanced Security: AES-256 encryption, CyberSec protection, Double VPN, and no-log policy.
- 📱 Great Device Support: Apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more.
- 🔗 Simultaneous Connections: Connect up to six devices simultaneously.
What makes ExpressVPN the best choice for NRL streaming?
ExpressVPN is widely recommended due to:
- 🚀 Ultra-fast Australian servers ensuring smooth streaming in HD.
- 🔓 Superior geo-block bypassing capabilities that consistently unblock platforms like 9Now.
- 📱 Cross-platform compatibility and dedicated apps for almost all devices.
- 🛡️ Strong security with AES-256 encryption, strict no-logs policy, and automatic kill switch.
- 📞 Outstanding customer support available 24/7 via live chat.
How can I watch National Rugby League (NRL) 2025 for free outside Australia?
You can watch the NRL 2025 season for free on 9Now, Australia’s free-to-air streaming platform. To access it from abroad, follow these steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN (ExpressVPN recommended).
- Install and open the VPN app.
- Connect to an Australian server.
- Create a free 9Now account.
- Stream NRL live matches hassle-free.
How can I watch NRL 2025 matches on my Smart TV using a VPN?
To stream NRL on your Smart TV, use one of these methods:
- 📺 Install a VPN directly: Some Smart TVs (Android TVs) allow VPN app installation.
- 📡 Smart DNS (MediaStreamer): Provided by ExpressVPN; allows streaming on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps.
- 🔌 VPN via Router: Set up a VPN on your router to protect all connected devices, including Smart TVs, without native VPN support.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips: What to Do if VPN Stops Working with 9Now?
If you face issues accessing 9Now despite using a VPN, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 🔄 Change Your Server: Switch between different Australian servers provided by your VPN.
- 🧹 Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Helps reset geo-location detection.
- 🖥️ Switch Browsers or Try Incognito Mode: Sometimes this resolves streaming issues immediately.
- 📞 Contact VPN Support: Premium VPNs offer 24/7 support to assist quickly.
Where to Watch NRL 2025 (Paid Options)
If you’re outside Australia—or want access to every game—you’ll need a paid subscription. Here’s the breakdown by country:
- USA – FOX (as a standalone service or with TV provider)
- UK – Sky Sports
- Canada – Sportsnet Now – Premium only
- Australia – Fox League via Foxtel Now (Sports Pack included), Foxtel iQ (Sports HD & Foxtel Plus included), Kayo Sports
- New Zealand – Sky Sports NZ
- France – BeIN Sports
FAQs
Can I watch NRL 2025 for free online?
Yes! You can stream select NRL matches for free through Australia’s streaming platform 9Now. If you’re outside Australia, you’ll need a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN to access 9Now.
Why can’t I access 9Now from outside Australia?
Due to content licensing and geographical restrictions, 9Now limits streaming access to viewers located within Australia only.
Which VPN is best for streaming NRL on 9Now?
ExpressVPN is highly recommended due to its consistently high streaming speeds, reliable Australian servers, and strong security. NordVPN is another great option for affordability and reliability.
Can I stream NRL on multiple devices simultaneously using a VPN?
Yes, premium VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN allow multiple simultaneous connections, enabling you to stream on several devices simultaneously.
Do I need an Australian TV subscription to watch NRL on 9Now?
No, you don’t need any subscription. 9Now is a free streaming service; you simply need an Australian IP address (achievable via VPN) and a free account registration.
Conclusion
Watching the National Rugby League (NRL) 2025 live and free from anywhere in the world is entirely achievable using a high-quality VPN service like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. With a VPN, you can effortlessly bypass geo-restrictions imposed by 9Now and enjoy thrilling rugby matches securely, privately, and without buffering issues.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you’ll never have to miss another exhilarating moment of the NRL. Choose the right VPN, connect to an Australian server, access 9Now, and cheer on your favorite team throughout the thrilling 2025 season.
Enjoy uninterrupted NRL action from anywhere!