Australia will host the Rugby League World Cup in 2026 after the tournament was rearranged following France’s withdrawal as the nation cited financial reasons behind their decision to pull the plug.

The World Cup was set to be hosted by France next year, until their withdrawal forced a revamped international calendar with organisers welcoming bids from a host of nations for the tournament.

“The Rugby League World Cup is the pinnacle of the game’s international calendar and Australia is set to deliver the most competitive and culturally diverse World Cup ever staged,” Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys said. 

“We will host matches across Australia and in Papua New Guinea to showcase the game’s best players to inspire the next generation, and cement rugby league as the number one sport in the Pacific.”

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Who will host the Rugby League World Cup in 2026? Australia wins hosting rights

The International Rugby League held a meeting in Singapore to help thrash out the details of upcoming fixtures. 

And powerbrokers landed on the current reigning champions to defend their crown on home soil in two years’ time.

The World Cup will consist of men’s, women’s and wheelchair events.

However, the tournament has been scaled down from its most recent iteration in 2022 with 10 nations set to compete in 2026 rather than the 16 which competed in the last men’s edition.

PNG will also serve as a host for the tournament as reports continue to roll on about their possible inclusion in the impending NRL expansion. 

“The partnership between the two countries provides a unique opportunity to combine Australia’s experience in delivering world class and commercially viable events, while building capacity and capability in PNG, where the passion for the game is unrivalled and the potential for the game is untapped,” V’landys stated. 

“The social and cultural legacy of this tournament will be wide-reaching and long-lasting, as we celebrate and promote diversity and inclusion, bringing communities together to tackle important social issues through the game of rugby league.

“The Commission thanks the IRL Board for putting its faith in us to deliver a successful and memorable event worthy of our sport’s premier international tournament.”

Who will play in the Rugby League World Cup in 2026?

Eight teams have already been confirmed for the men’s tournament on Aussie soil.

The eight quarter-finalists from two years ago – England, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Lebanon and PNG – are automatic qualifiers.

Meanwhile, just two spots remain up for grabs.

These will be decided by a World Series event which will be hosted next year featuring Cook Islands, Jamaica, South Africa and the winners of a European qualifying tournament that will stem from France, Serbia, Ukraine and Wales.