Australia to Host 2026 Rugby League World Cup Amid Pacific Expansion

Australia will host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, featuring men's, women's, and wheelchair tournaments. Initially set for France, it shifts to Australia with Papua New Guinea hosting a few matches. The tournament will see 10 men's, 8 women's and 8 wheelchair teams, promising a highly competitive event.

Australia will host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, the International Rugby League (IRL) announced on Wednesday, featuring men's, women's, and wheelchair tournaments.

Originally scheduled to be held in France in 2025, the tournament was moved after France decided to withdraw. The event will feature 10 men's teams, down from 16, and 8 women's and wheelchair teams. Some fixtures will also take place in Papua New Guinea.

According to IRL Chair Troy Grant, the 2026 World Cup promises to be the best and most competitive ever staged. The sport's popularity continues to grow in Australia and the Pacific, with sold-out stadiums and record television ratings.

Australia is also set to host the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup and the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup.

(With inputs from agencies.)