The International Rugby League (IRL) have confirmed that, following discussion with RLWC2021 organisers, the Festival of World Cups (FOWC) has been postponed.
The FOWC was scheduled to be held in England in June and July 2021 and would see include competitions for men’s student and defence forces, and women’s emerging nations.
Uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, however, has seen the Festival, which was one of the main events in the lead up to the 2021 World Cup, officially postponed.
On the announcement, IRL CEO Nigel Wood said: “It is unfortunate but understandable that member nations are unable to fully commit to these competitions at this stage.
“There is such a degree of uncertainty in the selection of squads and their fund-raising efforts that it makes sense to move the events to a time when there will be greater clarity.”
Rugby League World Cup 2021 chief executive Jon Dutton added: “Clearly we are disappointed that the Festival of World Cups will not be able to go ahead as planned in 2021.
“We look forward to future plans being made that will support these tournaments to take place and enable the on-going development of international Rugby League.”
“As the Rugby League World Cup 2021 we are still committed to delivering the Masters International event, in Newcastle, and Physical Disability Rugby League event, in Warrington, in October 2021 as part of our wider programme.”
The IRL, RLWC2021, and FOWC members and hosts will now look to organise new arrangements for the Festival’s potential go-ahead.
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