'Going to take their lunch': Peter V'landys fires back at 'biased' media coverage around Perth Bears

Peter V'landys has hit back at "biased" media coverage of the Perth Bears, while taking a trademark shot at the AFL over their concerns.

After months of speculation, it has now been confirmed that the NRL would welcome an 18th team for the 2027 season in the West Australian capital.

The deal is worth an estimated $65 million between the state and the league, but not everyone is on board with the landmark move.

READ MORE: Bennett weighs in 'cloudy' saga as Smith deal nears

READ MORE: Caslick gets first Test start as Kiwis counter with teen star

READ MORE: Two factors that have flipped script for resurgent Eels

The front page of The West Australian newspaper on Thursday morning read "the bad news Bears" with blatant criticism of the decision from WA Premier Roger Cook.

When asked about the initial reaction to the news, V'landys didn't shy away from dishing out his blunt assessment regarding Perth's mainstream news outlet.

"I think the media coverage has been a bit biased," the ARLC chairman said.

"The main newspaper here is owned by Seven West Media, that has the AFL rights.

Watch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

"Let's be quite frank, they don't want us to be here, because they realise we're going to be competitive and we're going to take some of their lunch - and we eat a lot."

As for whether or not rugby league officials spoke with anyone from the rival football code, V'landys was quick to dismiss why that would even be necessary.

"No - I don't see McDonald's checking with Kentucky Fried Chicken when they're opening a new store," he said.

"We certainly have not consulted with the AFL and they don't consult with us." 

Perth are part of a wider expansion plan from the NRL over the next few years, with a team in Papua New Guinea set to join in 2028 and a potential 20th team down the line.