Imagine the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the tackles, the pride of representing your nation… all happening right here in Perth! But hold on, rugby league fans, because Perth has officially clinched a spot as a host city for the Rugby League World Cup in 2026! This isn’t just a game; it’s a massive win for Western Australia, promising an economic boost and a chance to see world-class athletes in action. But here’s where it gets controversial: Will Perth truly embrace rugby league, or will it remain overshadowed by other sports? Let’s dive into the details.
Perth is gearing up to host not one, but two electrifying double-header match days during the Round One and Round Two stages of the Rugby League World Cup 2026. Think of it: two games, back-to-back, packed with international talent – a rugby league feast! The event itself, a quadrennial celebration of rugby league prowess, will be co-hosted by Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. This means the best of the best will be battling it out on our doorstep. The 2026 tournament will feature 10 men’s teams, 8 women’s teams, and 8 wheelchair teams, showcasing the inclusivity and global reach of the sport.
The Cook Government, through Tourism Western Australia, secured this major coup. The tournament spans five weeks, from October to November 2026, with Perth’s double-header matches taking place at the HBF Park over two weekends. Prepare to witness clashes between powerhouses such as Australia, England, Wales, Tonga, and France! And this is the part most people miss: each international team will be adopted by a local rugby league club. This provides unique opportunities for the WA community to connect with their favorite players, attend open training sessions, and truly feel part of the World Cup experience.
The Rugby League World Cup 2026 serves as a fantastic prelude to another historic moment: the Perth Bears’ debut in the NRL Premiership in 2027. WA’s passion for rugby league is undeniably on the rise, and these events are fueling the fire. Major events like the Rugby League World Cup 2026 align perfectly with the Cook Government’s commitment to diversifying the economy. They help create a vibrant, year-round events calendar that attracts visitors from across the country and the globe, subsequently boosting local businesses and creating jobs. Think of the packed hotels, bustling restaurants, and thriving local businesses – all thanks to rugby league!
As Premier Roger Cook puts it, “Western Australians love their sport, no matter the code, and bringing the world’s best rugby league players to Perth adds to our State’s reputation as a global sports destination.” He emphasizes the government’s focus on economic diversification and job creation, adding that the World Cup excitement is perfectly timed with the Perth Bears’ impending NRL entry. Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti highlights the positive impact on community sport, from elite events to grassroots pathways for young Western Australians. She notes the opportunity for local players and fans to connect with international teams, boosting participation and strengthening WA’s rugby league infrastructure. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby underscores the role of major events in growing WA’s visitor economy, showcasing the state’s world-class facilities and solidifying its reputation as a premier events destination in the Southeast Asia region.
But here’s a thought: While everyone celebrates the economic benefits and sporting opportunities, are we truly prepared to support the growth of rugby league in WA long-term? Will the hype translate into sustained participation and investment in local clubs? What do you think? Will Perth become a true rugby league stronghold, or will this be a fleeting moment in the sporting spotlight? Share your thoughts in the comments below!