Surprise nation firm up bid to host 2030 Rugby League World Cup

A surprise nation seems to be in contention to host the 2030 Rugby League World Cup, following an Australia and PNG edition.

The delayed World Cup in 2022, held in England, was the first to have a joint men’s, women’s and wheelchair competition, while the 2026 edition is set to have a similar situation, albeit with fewer teams.

2030 will have separate events, and previously, five nations moved to a new stage of bidding, with Kenya, South Africa, the USA and Pacific nations Papua New Guinea and New Zealand the five nations that made it through.

IRL (International Rugby League) called it the “most geographically extensive bidding group in the men’s competition’s history”, and it certainly left an exciting final five after eleven applied for the three tournaments that will take place between 2028 and 2030.

Surprise nation could host 2030 Rugby League World Cup

Now, it has been reported that South Africa have moved to a new stage again, and the IRL board will meet this month to canvas applications.

NT News reports: “The South African 2030 World Cup bid has pushed past an expression-of-interest vetting process and been granted formal approval to lodge a full application.”

A final decision will be made in February.

This comes as the SA Government looks to host more sporting events – over a decade on from the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Two weeks ago, Australia boss Mal Meninga said: “We should take international footy to other nations, like America or Asia; take our game to South Africa, it used to be played there.

“They understand rugby union but I think rugby league would get a following.”

Now, a step forward for South Africa may take place.

When submitting the bid, South Africa RL president Dr Frans Erasmus said: “We boast a rich history of staging extraordinary international events, and our aim is to add the prestigious IRL Men’s World Cup to that illustrious list.

“Rugby league, often referred to here as a sleeping giant, is poised for a transformative moment, with our bid not only capitalising on the growth of the sport in South Africa but also across the continent.

“With the unwavering support of our passionate fans, our world-class facilities and the backing of our dedicated stakeholders, we are confident that South Africa will deliver a truly exceptional IRL World Cup experience, setting a new standard for excellence.”