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Get ready for the ultimate rugby league extravaganza! The Rugby League World Cup is coming to the Southern Hemisphere in 2026 and it's going to be bigger and better than ever before. Brace yourself for the pulsating action as men's, women's, and wheelchair tournaments collide in an unparalleled display of athleticism and skill.
Imagine the electric atmosphere, the thunderous cheers, and the anticipation as the strongest nations battle it out for glory on the international stage. Witness the bone-crunching tackles, lightning-fast tries, and jaw-dropping moments that will leave you on the edge of your seat. With 10 men's teams, 8 women's teams, and 8 wheelchair teams, this tournament will showcase the very best of rugby league from around the world.
Experience the thrill of being a part of history as this prestigious event unfolds, leaving lasting memories and sparking a newfound appreciation for the sport.
As part of the new calendar leading up to 2030, the Rugby League World Cup promises even more exciting developments, including a stand-alone tournament for the Women's Rugby League World Cup in 2028. This recognition of the rapid growth of women's rugby league ensures that the sport continues to evolve and inspire the next generation of players and fans.
So, get ready to witness the clash of giants, the rise of underdogs, and the triumph of the human spirit.
Register your Interest now to be among the first to receive updates and secure your place at the Rugby League World Cup 2026.
Don't miss out on this unparalleled sporting spectacle that will leave you breathless and longing for more.
The upcoming IRL Rugby League World Cup, set to take place in the Southern Hemisphere in 2026, will feature simultaneous tournaments for men, women, and wheelchair athletes. To capitalize on the international game's growth, the IRL board decided to shift the World Cup from 2025 to 2026 and implement a revised format that aligns with the new calendar leading up to 2030.
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will feature 10 men's teams, eight women's teams, and eight wheelchair teams. This modification was necessitated by France's withdrawal as hosts of the previously scheduled 2025 Rugby League World Cup.
Additionally, a stand-alone Women's Rugby League World Cup is scheduled for 2028, recognizing the rapid development of the sport since RLWC2017 and drawing inspiration from the success of the current stand-alone FIFA Women's World Cup being held in Australia and New Zealand.
The cycle for the Men's World Cup has also been adjusted, with the following tournament after RLWC2026 now slated for 2030. The IRL is actively working on determining the future positioning of the Wheelchair World Cup post-RLWC2026.
By reverting to 10 men's teams, mirroring the participant count of the 2008 World Cup, RLWC2026 and RLWC2030 will showcase elite tournaments featuring the strongest nations and top players.
Regional Championships in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East-Africa, and the Americas will be given greater importance, providing genuine pathways for nations to develop and qualify for future World Cups.
The eight men's quarter-finalists from RLWC2021, held in England, will automatically qualify for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, alongside the four women's and wheelchair semi-finalists.
Decisions regarding hosting rights for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in the Southern Hemisphere and the competitive tender process for all World Cups until 2030 will be announced by the end of this year.
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