England to host Rugby League World Cup in 2021
ENGLAND have beaten off competition from the USA and Canada to win the bid to host the Rugby League World Cup in 20121.
The Rugby League International Federation said England had been successful in isecuring the 31-game men’s tournament alongside the women’s and wheelchair tournament in five years’ time.
Following the announcement, chairman of the RFL, Brian Barwick, said: “The news that England has won the right to host the Rugby League World Cup in 2021 is transformative for our sport.
“Our commitment to grow the game internationally, attract more spectators than ever before and put on the biggest and best event in the sports history has clearly been recognised by the RLIF.
“With a sold out game between England and New Zealand this weekend in the Ladbrokes Four Nations it is clear that there is a real passion for international rugby league in this country.
“The UK has a proud reputation for delivering world class sporting events and the Rugby League World Cup in 2021 will round off an incredible decade of major events in our country that began with the London Olympics in 2012.
“The hard work starts now, but we are confident that we can deliver.
The tournament will benefit from central government backing with up to £15m pledged to help support the hosting of the Rugby League World Cup in 2021 and a further £10m to support infrastructure for the sport and grow the game across the country.
Minister for Sport, Tracey Crouch, said: “I am delighted that England has been chosen to stage the Rugby League World Cup in 2021.”
“The tournament will be a fantastic festival of rugby, enjoyed by a million spectators, and bringing economic benefits to host towns and cities. I look forward to working alongside the RLIF, RFL and UK Sport on an outstanding event.”
England captain Sam Burgess said: “The bid that England put together sounds fantastic for the sport.
“The idea of playing alongside my brothers and teammates not only on home soil, but in the country’s most iconic venues in front of packed out crowds is something I have dreamed of doing again.
“I would love to see the Rugby League World Cup move to another level and I’m certain that hosting it in England will help succeed in doing this.”
