France withdraws as host of 2025 Rugby League World Cup due to financial reasons
The 2025 Rugby League World Cup has been thrown into chaos after France announced its withdrawal from hosting the tournament, citing financial constraints. The tournament was initially planned for North America but was eventually awarded to France. Organisers were unable to meet the financial requirements set by the French government, putting the event at risk of deficit. The International Rugby League (IRL) will now explore alternative options for the tournament and is set to meet in July to discuss further steps.
“It’s difficult to express how disappointed I am with this news,” said IRL chair Troy Grant.
“There’s no secret as to how important the strengthening of France as a rugby league nation is to our global game and central to our strategic plans.
“I respect the French government’s decision amid the challenges they are facing but I can’t hide my disappointment, that I conveyed clearly to them in person.
“Despite our focus having been on France, we will now accelerate our consideration of other contingency options.”
2025 four titles
England hosted the event in 2022, and even took home the wheelchair title, Australia won the men’s and women’s titles.
The 2025 competition was scheduled to feature four versions – men’s, women’s, wheelchair and youth categories.
“After the success of last autumn’s Rugby League World Cup in England, it is imperative that all in the sport now work with International Rugby League to rebuild the international calendar, for men’s, women’s and wheelchair rugby league,” said Rugby Football League chair Simon Johnson.
