- Visa dramas could see Sam Burgess stay in the UK
- He is the head coach of Super League outfit Warrington
- Understood Burgess, 36, submitted late paperwork
NRL legend Sam Burgess could miss Warrington’s historic rugby league clash against Wigan in Las Vegas due to visa complications.
His application remains under review, with Burgess – who is head coach of the Wolves Super League team – spending two days at the US Embassy in London in an attempt to resolve the issue.
Daily Mail Australia understands the lateness of Burgess’ submitted visa application has further complicated matters.
‘It’s been a bit of a process,’ the South Sydney premiership winner told the Warrington Guardian.
‘Essentially it is out of my control at the moment. ‘I think I’ll get there. I’m confident.
‘A lot of work has gone on [behind the scenes].
NRL legend Sam Burgess could miss Warrington’s historic rugby league clash against Wigan in Las Vegas due to visa complications (pictured, with wife Lucy)
His application remains under review, with Burgess – who is head coach of the Wolves Super League team – spending two days at the US Embassy in London in an attempt to speed up the outcome
Rabbitohs great Sam Burgess (pictured left) after winning the 2014 NRL premiership with twin brothers Tom and George (right)
Burgess, 36, added: ‘it is with the border control…and he has ‘received a few messages to say it’s going in the right direction.’
In 2021, Burgess pleaded guilty to three driving offences, including being behind the wheel with cocaine in his system.
Burgess avoided a criminal conviction after a four-week stint in rehab as well as completing a traffic offenders program.
The former England international isn’t the first footy star to have his visa under scrutiny following historical off-field dramas.
South Sydney pair Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton, as well as Sea Eagles pivot Luke Brooks plus Broncos fullback Reece Walsh visited the US consulate last year before flying to Sin City.
And in recent weeks, players from the Warriors, Sharks and Raiders – including trio Josh Papalii, Tom Starling and Joe Tapine – were all formally interviewed before having their paperwork rubber-stamped.
If Burgess’ visa application is rejected, assistant coaches Martin Gleeson and Richard Marshall will take charge for the Wolves.
Come March 2 AEDT, Wigan tackle Warrington from 8:30am, followed by Canberra against New Zealand at 11am in the first match of a NRL double header to kick-off the 2025 season.
Next is the women’s Test match between the Australian Jillaroos and England (1pm, AEDT) before Nathan Cleary’s Panthers do battle with the Sharks from 3.30pm.
