- Australia and Papua New Guinea have secured hosting rights for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
- The tournament will feature men’s, women’s, and wheelchair events, with a reduction to 10 teams in the men’s category.
- This will be the first World Cup in the Pacific region, aimed at enhancing rugby league’s presence and development.
In a significant development for rugby league, Australia and Papua New Guinea have been selected to co-host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. This decision follows France’s withdrawal from hosting due to financial and logistical challenges.
The tournament will be a landmark event, showcasing rugby league across Australia and PNG and aiming to strengthen the sport’s foothold in the Pacific region.
2026 Rugby League World Cup to Feature Australian and PNG Venues
The choice to include Papua New Guinea is a strategic move to boost the sport’s profile and development in a country known for its passionate rugby league following. The World Cup will encompass the men’s, women’s, and wheelchair categories, with the men’s competition reduced from 16 to 10 teams. This adjustment reflects the evolving landscape of international rugby league and the focus on quality and competitive balance.
With matches set to be played across various Australian venues and in PNG, the tournament will benefit from Australia’s experience in hosting major sporting events. The inclusion of Papua New Guinea also aligns with the broader objective of expanding the game’s reach and impact in the Pacific. This collaboration aims to elevate the rugby league experience and inspire the next generation of players.
As the tournament approaches, rugby league enthusiasts can look forward to a dynamic event that will showcase top talent and foster growth in the sport. The 2026 World Cup will be a pivotal moment for rugby league, bridging the gap between established and emerging rugby league nations and promoting the game’s global expansion.
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will bring rugby league to new heights with Australia and Papua New Guinea co-hosting. The tournament promises to enhance the sport’s visibility and development across the Pacific region, highlighting the growing influence of rugby league.
Peter V’landys’ vision for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, focusing on showcasing the game’s best players and inspiring the next generation, highlights the significance of this co-hosting arrangement.
