Magic Round has proven just that – on and off the field.
From epic laughs to games that left us in shock, the NRL showpiece has had something for everyone since the first instalment in 2019.
We take a look at the viral moments that made Magic Round so special >>>
Magic on the field
The Wahs’ miracle (2024): An injury-ravaged Warriors side took down the Penrith juggernaut.
The post-match “Mt Smart” atmosphere in Brisbane was electric; the viral footage of the fans doing the Haka in the stands is a must-include.
Selwyn Cobbo’s hat-trick (2022): The local kid scoring three against Manly. The image of him leaping into the Suncorp crowd became an instant iconic “poster” shot for the weekend.
The 2021 “Sin Bin Sunday”: This went viral for the wrong reasons. The NRL cracked down on high tackles, resulting in 14 sin bins and 3 send-offs in one weekend. The “Magic Round” turned into “Musical Chairs,” and the memes of the sideline looking like a crowded bus stop were everywhere.
Arthurs’ lovefest: In 2021 Parramatta coach Brad Arthur won hearts across the league following the debut of son Jakob, who scored in the 34-18 victory over the Warriors, with the pair exchanging emotional hugs after the match.
Fletch, Hindy, and the larrikins
The “Street Talk” segments: Every year, Fletch and Hindy hit Caxton Street. The viral gold usually comes from them finding the one fan who has been “hydrating” since 10am and getting them to predict a scoreline that doesn’t exist.
The Dress-ups: Their commitment to bit — whether dressing as security guards or trying to sneak into the coaches’ boxes — usually ends up all over TikTok.
The “Falcon” reels: Magic Round always seems to produce a high-quality “Falcon” (ball hitting a player in the face). Hindy usually manages to find a way to clip these together with some elite commentary.
The “Only at Magic Round” chaos
The Beer Pyramids: Before security started cracking down, the “Snake” or “Pyramid” of plastic cups snaking through the lower tiers of Suncorp was a staple viral image.
The 2024 streaker: There’s always one. In 2024, a pitch invader managed to dodge about six security guards before getting absolutely levelled. The “big hit” commentary dubbed over these clips always does numbers.
The “Caxton Street Wall”: The footage of the buses trying to drive through thousands of fans on Caxton Street. It looks like a scene from a movie, and the players filming the fans from inside the bus gives a great “behind the scenes” perspective.
Brawls in Brisbane: Footy fans are known to have a good time and even more beer but things got a little too wild in 2022 when a brawl broke out in the crowd on opening night.
Fans, celebs & commentary
Celeb spotting: Don’t worry about spotting the players on the streets, many fans seek out the celebs coming to town for the big event. Hollywood star Owen Wilson is among those to have taken to Brisbane to soak in the atmosphere. We are already wondering who we may spot in 2026, with Kevin Costner, Sydney Sweeney and Chris Hemsworth all being flagged as potential attendees.
Then there are past footy stars like Willie Mason, Paul Gallen, or Sam Thaiday who tend to float around each year.
Hot mic moments: Keep an eye out for the times the stadium mic picks up a player’s “colourful” reaction to a referee’s decision. Then there is the access to players and coaches.
Will they, won’t they Welcome to Country: The hot topic across the nation also remains a lightning rod during Magic Round, with theNRL holding firm in its view of hosting the ceremony. Many fans, however, continue to blow up about being welcomed to their own country.
Buck’s big day out: It was the race we have all been waiting for: Mascot v mascot in the ultimate bid for glory. In the end hometown hero Buck the Bronco raced to victory in 2025 in front of jubilant fans.
Originally published as From epic pranks to shock upsets: The most unforgettable Magic Round moments
