Rugby League World Cup 2026 to Revolutionize Sports Tourism Across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea

Published on November 23, 2025

The Rugby League World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and anticipated events in the history of the sport, and it is set to become a major draw for sports tourism. With 26 teams from 14 nations competing across three countries and nine host cities, the tournament promises to deliver an unmatched experience for both players and fans. The event will span 31 days, featuring 53 matches, and is expected to attract thousands of spectators, further solidifying rugby league’s place as a leading international sport.

Rugby League’s Global Appeal: A Boost for Tourism

The 2026 World Cup will not only showcase the world’s best Rugby League talent but will also elevate the global popularity of the sport. Peter V’landys AM, Chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), described the event as an opportunity to witness unprecedented levels of skill, passion, and physicality. With Rugby League growing rapidly in global appeal, this World Cup will shine a spotlight on international players and offer fans an incredible spectacle both on and off the field.

This growth in Rugby League’s popularity is particularly significant for sports tourism, as more countries embrace the sport and build a global following. The excitement surrounding the tournament is sure to fuel interest in travel, with fans from around the world eager to attend the matches and experience the vibrant cultures of the host cities. From international visitors to passionate local supporters, the 2026 Rugby League World Cup will attract a diverse audience and create opportunities for tourism across all three host nations.

Key Venues and Match Locations: The Heart of Sports Tourism

The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will be hosted across three countries: Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Brisbane’s iconic Suncorp Stadium will host both the Men’s and Women’s Finals on November 15, while Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre will stage the Wheelchair Rugby League Final on November 13. These venues are set to become the focal points of the tournament, drawing in large crowds and making a significant contribution to the local tourism economy.

In addition to the Finals, matches will be played in cities such as Sydney, Perth, Newcastle, Christchurch, Port Moresby, Gold Coast, and Townsville. This wide range of locations not only offers fans the chance to witness top-tier Rugby League action but also allows them to explore the unique destinations that host these thrilling events. Sports tourism is about more than just the match; it’s about immersing fans in the culture, local attractions, and history of the host cities, making each trip an unforgettable experience.

The Men’s Tournament: A Competitive Showcase

The Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 will feature 10 teams divided into three pools. Group A includes Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and the Cook Islands, while Group B consists of England, Samoa, and Lebanon, and Group C has Tonga, PNG, and France. The tournament will kick off with a highly anticipated clash between Australia and New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on October 15, followed by other exciting matchups including England vs. Tonga at Perth’s HBF Park and Tonga vs. Samoa at CommBank Stadium in Sydney.

For sports tourists, the Men’s tournament offers an opportunity to attend some of the sport’s most thrilling matchups. With top-ranked teams competing in high-stakes games, the tournament is expected to provide both fans and travelers with unforgettable moments. Beyond the matches themselves, these events will generate significant tourism opportunities in the host cities, boosting the local economy through hotel bookings, restaurant visits, and tourist attractions.

Women’s Tournament: The Rise of Female Sports Tourism

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup will also be a major draw for sports tourism, featuring eight teams split into two groups. The tournament will showcase some of the world’s best female rugby league talent, with Australia, England, Samoa, and Wales in Group A, and New Zealand, PNG, France, and Fiji in Group B. The tournament will kick off on October 16 with a match between Australia’s Jillaroos and Samoa at CommBank Stadium.

The growing popularity of women’s sports is contributing to a surge in female sports tourism, with fans eager to support women athletes on the global stage. The Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 will be an excellent opportunity for female sports fans to attend a world-class event, celebrate gender equality in sports, and support the talented athletes who will take to the field. By drawing international visitors, the tournament will contribute to the development of women’s sports tourism and showcase the importance of gender diversity in rugby.

Wheelchair Rugby League: Accessibility and Inclusion in Sports Tourism

The Wheelchair Rugby League tournament will be held entirely at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre, making it a significant part of the sports tourism experience. The tournament will feature teams from England, Ireland, Wales, the USA, France, Australia, Scotland, and New Zealand. The Wheelchair Rugby League competition will provide fans with an exciting opportunity to witness athletes with disabilities compete at the highest level.

The inclusion of Wheelchair Rugby League in the World Cup highlights the growing focus on accessibility in sports tourism. By promoting inclusive sports events, the Rugby League World Cup will reach a broader audience and foster a deeper connection between fans and athletes, regardless of physical ability. Sports tourism is not only about watching elite athletes; it is about celebrating diversity and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to participate in and enjoy the sport.

Sports Tourism Growth and Future Opportunities

As the Rugby League World Cup 2026 approaches, it is clear that sports tourism will play a key role in the event’s success. The excitement surrounding the tournament, combined with the increasing global popularity of Rugby League, is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the host countries. The 2026 World Cup will serve as a catalyst for sports tourism growth, benefiting local economies and providing long-term opportunities for tourism development in the host cities.

The tournament will also showcase the cultural richness of the host nations, offering visitors the chance to explore iconic landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and engage with the vibrant cultures of Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. As the World Cup grows, so too will the opportunities for sports tourism, ensuring that future events continue to inspire travelers to experience the thrill of Rugby League in person.

Conclusion: Rugby League World Cup 2026 as a Premier Sports Tourism Event

The Rugby League World Cup 2026 is set to be a groundbreaking event for both the sport and sports tourism. With exciting matchups, world-class venues, and a diverse range of tournaments, the event promises to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans and travelers alike. As Rugby League continues to grow in popularity, the 2026 World Cup will showcase the sport on the global stage, creating new opportunities for tourism and further cementing Rugby League’s place as a premier international sporting event.