Rugby League World Cup 2026

Men’s Tournament

A large countdown clock displays the time left until the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The digital timer shows '30 days, 0 hours, and 6 minutes' remaining. The clock is illuminated by bright red and white lights and is set against a backdrop of modern buildings with green outline lighting at night. A streetlamp and a road sign are visible in the foreground, adding to the urban setting.

Women’s Tournament

Eight women’s teams will battle it out across Australia and Papua New Guinea this October-November.

A women's soccer match with players actively engaged near the goal area. The player in white is leaping into the air, likely attempting to head the ball, which is visible in the top right. Several players in red and black jerseys are positioned around her, focused on the ball. The background shows a crowd of spectators in the stands, with flags hanging over the railing, including the Australian flag, the Jamaican flag, and a rainbow flag. The atmosphere suggests energetic gameplay.

Wheelchair Rugby

The wheelchair tournament features eight teams showcasing skill and determination on the court.

A group of people are playing rugby on a grass field. Several players are clustered around the ball, while others watch or prepare to engage. The players are wearing uniforms in black and white, and the referee is wearing a bright pink shirt. The field is surrounded by a hedge and a few benches, with a sparse audience watching from the sidelines.

Host Venues

Matches will take place across Australia, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand, bringing the sport to vibrant communities.

Our Teams

Ten men’s, eight women’s, and eight wheelchair teams unite for RLWC 2026.

Join Us
A group of athletes are running on a field, engaged in a rugby match. They are wearing blue and black sports uniforms, indicating two opposing teams. Advertisements and signs are visible in the background, suggesting a formal sports venue.
A group of young women, wearing matching Australian team gear, stand enthusiastically in a sports arena. They are smiling, cheering, and clapping, indicating a supportive and lively atmosphere. Spectators in casual attire are visible in the background, some taking photos.

Teams

Meet the proud nations competing across all rugby league formats in 2026.

A rugby field surrounded by stands and a few structures. A group of players forms a huddle on the grass, and the weather appears to be overcast. The scene includes goalposts, a partially filled grandstand, and a large domed building in the background.
A group of rugby players wearing white jerseys with red and yellow accents stand together on the field. Some players have their arms around each other, suggesting team unity or celebration. The focus is on the back of their jerseys, displaying names and numbers.
A group of athletes are playing rugby on a green field. The teams are distinguishable by their uniforms; one team wears black and white, while the other wears blue and black stripes. In the background, there are spectators sitting on steps and standing, watching the game. The setting is outdoors, possibly in a park or sports complex, with bare trees and bushes beyond the field.
A large stadium filled with spectators, with a rugby game taking place on the field. The players are grouped near the center, possibly in a scrum. The stands are full, indicating a high attendance, and the sky is overcast with some patches of blue.