Newcastle's World Cup Triumph: Semi-Finals Heading to Hunter
The Hunter region is set for an unprecedented economic and sporting windfall after Newcastle secured hosting rights for four matches in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, including historic men's and women's semi-final double headers. This landmark decision marks the first time the city will host top-four fixtures in the tournament's history, elevating Newcastle to the global rugby league stage.
Stadium Set for World Cup Showdowns
McDonald Jones Stadium will house four crucial matches during next year's tournament, featuring a men's and women's double header on November 7 that will help determine which teams advance to the championship decider. While Newcastle previously hosted pool stage matches during the 2008 World Cup, the allocation of semi-finals represents a significant upgrade in the city's hosting credentials.
International Rugby League's independent chair Troy Grant explained that Newcastle's successful bid resulted from a competitive process where the city's package proved particularly desirable. "Obviously it's got a wonderful stadium and a wonderful crowd that knows rugby league and embraces the sport," Grant told the Newcastle Herald.
Grant, who hails from the Hunter region himself, expressed particular enthusiasm about the tourism benefits, noting that the event "adds so much to the touring public by the way of hospitality and tourism components as well for the whole region."
Economic Boom and Community Excitement
City of Newcastle councillor Peta Winney-Baartz reacted to Sunday's official draw announcement with overwhelming excitement, predicting that the semi-final double header "will sell-out in a heartbeat." She emphasized that regardless of which nations qualify for the semi-finals, Newcastle's passionate rugby league community would show up in force.
The economic impact is expected to be substantial, with Winney-Baartz highlighting the "flow-on effect" that will benefit the entire Hunter region. "People will come visit and go to Port Stephens, the Vineyards, maybe duck down to see a couple of games in Sydney," she said, underscoring the regional tourism boost.
Business Hunter chief executive officer Bob Hawes described the decision as a "show of confidence" in the region's capabilities, pointing to successful events like the NRLW Magic Round as evidence that Newcastle can deliver on major sporting occasions.
Newcastle Rugby League general manager Adam Devcich added that the hosting rights recognition reflects the area's status as "the biggest single nursery on the planet" when considering total participant numbers.
Government Support and Global Showcase
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley described Newcastle as a "world-class sporting destination" in an official statement, while Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp called the semi-final allocation "a huge win for my community."
Fiji has been positioned as Newcastle's potential second team, with the Bati scheduled to play a double header at McDonald Jones Stadium against New Zealand (women) and Cook Islands (men) on October 18 during the regular competition phase.
Tickets for all matches have already gone on sale, with expectations of strong demand from local and visiting rugby league enthusiasts alike. The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will see Sydney host the other semi-final, while Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium will stage the tournament final.
