Argentina announce South American bid to host 2035 Rugby World Cup

Argentina, alongside Uruguay, Chile, and Brazil, have officially announced their bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup in South America. This follows Australia's hosting of the 2027 tournament and the United States' hosting of the 2031 edition. Argentina, despite being the only country to reach a semi-final without hosting, is the first to formally submit a candidacy.

The proposal includes technical details and has been submitted to World Rugby within the required timeframe. The bid will undergo a review process, including venue visits, with the final decision expected in November 2027. If successful, all four countries would host matches. The proposed venues span Buenos Aires, La Plata, Córdoba, Santiago del Estero, Salta, Mendoza, and Rosario in Argentina, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Santiago in Chile, and Montevideo in Uruguay.

The four nations boast a combined population of 283 million and possess a wealth of experience in hosting major international sporting events. Félix Páez Molina, president of the Argentine rugby union, expressed optimism about the region's potential. Marcello Calandra, president of Sudamérica Rugby, emphasized the unity of the bid and the region's readiness to host the World Cup.

Hosting a World Cup in the region would fulfill a long-standing goal for the countries, with past tournaments generating significant economic and social benefits. Spain has also announced its candidacy, while Japan, the host of the 2019 tournament, has indicated its intent to bid for 2035.