France has pulled out of hosting the 2025 Rugby League World Cup, citing financial reasons. The tournament was to be held in October and November 2025 and would have been the first time France had hosted the event.
The International Rugby League (IRL) says it is disappointed with the decision and will now consider other options for the tournament. The IRL board is due to meet in July to discuss the next steps.
The 2025 Rugby League World Cup was to be a major event for the sport. It was to be the first time that the tournament would be held in four different formats: men’s, women’s, wheelchair, and youth.
The 2022 Rugby League World Cup was held in England and was a huge success. Australia won the men’s and women’s tournaments, while England won the wheelchair tournament.
The IRL says it is committed to rebuilding the international calendar for rugby league. The organization says it will work with all stakeholders to find a new host for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup.
