Australia and New Zealand to host 2017 World Cup

The Rugby League International Federation announced this morning that the 2017 Rugby League World Cup will be held jointly between Australia and New Zealand.

After a successful 2013 Rugby League World Cup help in England and Wales, the RLIF has allowed more than three years to plan for the 2017 event by announcing the joint hosts who saw off a rival bid from South Africa.

The 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 bouyed 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.”

The announcement will be followed by details of the qualifying competition and Festival of World Cups which will be unveiled by the RLIF in due course.