USA & Pacifics to host 2030 Rugby League World Cup

The World Rugby League Cup, set to take place in 2030, will be hosted by the USA and the Pacific Islands, according to recent announcements from the International Rugby League (IRL). The five host cities have yet to be determined, but the men's and women's tournaments will occur simultaneously, mirroring the current World Cup format.

IRL Chairman Tony Grant revealed that this strategic move aims to grow the sport's popularity among broadcasters, government partners, and fans. This expansion is expected to attract new countries to the World Cup, which has previously set records for both attendance and television viewership.

Grant also outlined plans to expand the tournament from 10 to 12 teams for the men's competition, and from eight to 10 for the women's event. The specific format of the tournament is still under discussion, with feedback from nations gathered during the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM). The IRL has proposed promoting Samoa and Tonga to Tier One nations alongside Australia, England, and New Zealand.

Samoa has made history by becoming the first Pacific island nation to reach a World Cup final in 2022, while they and Tonga both advanced to the semi-finals during the 2023 tournament.

The 2030 Wheelchair World Cup will coincide with the main event, set to be held in France. Additionally, the 2034 Rugby League World Cup is scheduled for Europe. The men's and women's finals of the 2026 tournament, currently contested between Australia and New Zealand, will take place in Brisbane on November 15, 2026. Australia has won the last three World Cups, while their women's team is making history as they prepare for their fifth consecutive final.