Queensland Rugby has finalised a new agreement with Suncorp Stadium
that will enable the Reds to continue playing their Super Rugby games at
what is regarded by most as the best rugby venue in Australia.
Queensland Rugby CEO Jim Carmichael said the long term deal secured a
first class venue for the resurgent Reds and growing army of fans and
was reached after considering various options, including possibly
playing games at Ballymore.
Mr Carmichael said the stadium management understood the need to work
with Queensland Rugby on growing the Reds Rugby brand and fan base as
the Super Rugby competition enters a new era of expansion to 15 teams
with more local derbies and more home games.
"Building partnerships is a key plank of our strategy and we have
developed a strong partnership with the Suncorp management team since we
first made it our home ground in 2006. They know our business and our
objectives," said Mr Carmichael.
Suncorp Stadium General Manager Alan Graham said the agreement
secured a first class venue for the Reds, who enjoyed record crowds in
2010.
Mr Graham said the negotiations had been conducted in "good spirit"
and it was always a key focus that the Stadium and the QRU worked
together to ensure the success of the Reds both on and off the field.
"A world class team in a premier international competition deserves
to be playing at a world-class venue and today's announcement ensures
that will happen," he said.
"The Queensland Government redeveloped the Stadium so it could host
premium events and the inclusion of eight Reds games is an important
addition to its schedule for 2011."
The Reds' campaign in the 2011 Super Rugby competition kicks off on
February 20, with a Sunday afternoon home game against the Western
Force.
With the 2011 playing venue now decided, season membership renewals will go on sale this week.