Newcastle replaces Cumbria as final venue to stage World Cup matches

Drew Darbyshire 28 Aug 2019 11:27 AM

Newcastle’s Kingston Park will replace West Cumbria’s Allerdale stadium as the final ground to host 2021 Rugby League World Cup fixtures.

Kingston Park – the home of Newcastle Thunder and Newcastle Falcons – has been chosen by the RLWC2021 following Allerdale council’s decision to withdraw their bid to host matches after they decided to reconsider plans for a new stadium in Workington.

The 10,200-capacity Kingston Park will host three men’s fixtures in 2021, adding another North East venue to the tournament, with the opening ceremony followed by England men’s first fixture already taking place at St James’ Park, and a further men’s fixture being staged at the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough.

RLWC2021 chief executive, Jon Dutton, commented: “We are very pleased to be able to confirm Kingston Park as a host venue for our event in 2021.

“Newcastle is already playing a critical part in the tournament and we are delighted to add a further three high-profile matches in the city.

“Given the disappointing news regarding the withdrawal of Allerdale, we wanted to ensure that the replacement venue was within reach of West Cumbria, whilst also offering rugby league and sports fans the opportunity to have a broader offer in Newcastle that will add to an already exciting opening weekend.”

Thunder chairman Mick Hogan added: “It is fantastic news that Kingston Park Stadium has been chosen to host these three prestigious games.

“The venue has been home to Newcastle Thunder for five seasons now and also regularly hosts community games, student matches and representative rugby league events.

“With Newcastle now hosting four matches in the Men’s Tournament, as well as the opening ceremony, the city will play a huge part in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

“Kingston Park Stadium has tremendous supporter and corporate facilities and we look forward to welcoming three capacity crowds and showing the rugby league community our famous Geordie welcome.”