The Rugby League International Federation announced today that Rugby League World Cup 2017 will be hosted jointly by Australia and New Zealand.
After the success of Rugby League World Cup 2013, the RLIF has moved quickly to assess the bids for the next World Cup and announce the hosts. This will allow more than three years of planning for RLWC2017 to build on the accomplishments of RLWC2013.
Chairman of the bid committee and RLIF Vice-Chair, Nigel Wood said “This was not a simple decision but with fans of international Rugby League buoyed by the recent success of RLWC2013, we were determined to get it right.”
“Both bids were thoroughly compelling but the joint Australia/New Zealand bid was selected as the one with the greatest chance of success in providing more compelling games in world class environments in front of big, passionate crowds.”
“The bid from South Africa was very strong, prepared professionally and clearly demonstrated a passion for Rugby League that is growing by the day in that country.”
Details of the qualifying competition for the tournament and the Festival of World Cups will be decided by the RLIF and announced in due course.
