Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has always been a big rugby league fan, with his passionate support for his local club South Sydney Rabbitohs being part of his prominent public profile.
Whilst his beloved Rabbitohs were well off the pace this season, the PM will still be tuning into a hugely exciting 2024 Grand Final between the Storm and the Panthers like all rugby league fans.
He has also been brave and made his predictions on whether the Storm will win their first final in four years, or if Penrith will win a phenomenal fourth premiership in a row.
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Albanese makes Grand Final prediction
Albanese has predicted the Panthers to win yet another Grand Final, though he believes it will be a very close encounter.
Speaking on SEN's Breakfast with Vossy and Brandy, Albanese believes Penrith' Grand Final experience, as well as the presence of Nathan Cleary will be too much for a talented Storm side.
"I think it will be a great game, I am tipping Penrith to get there, they seem to know how to get it done," Albanese said.
"Anyone who watched last year with that extraordinary taking over of the game, Cleary just dominated that last 20 minutes in a way that I’ve never seen done at that level."
Despite his pick, he believes the Storm will push them all the way, and could easily be carried to victory by Dally M Medal winner Jahrome Hughes.
"Penrith have that experience, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Melbourne gets there," he said, "they have been the best team all year, and they’ve got great players like Jahrome Hughes and [Cameron] Munster.
"But they’ve also got players Craig Bellamy takes from other clubs and turns good players into great players, and he’s been a great coach."
Like many neutrals, the PM is hoping it is a close encounter, and can enter the record books as an all-time great Grand Final.
"I’m looking forward to the best teams all year facing off on Sunday, and I just hope it’s a tight game. I think it will be."
