Newcastle is preparing to welcome the world's best rugby league players as the city looks set to be announced as a host venue for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Tournament organisers are expected to make the official announcement next Monday, confirming Newcastle's role in the international sporting spectacle.
World Cup Returns to Newcastle
The Hunter region last hosted a World Cup match in 2008 when New Zealand faced England, but missed out when Australia co-hosted the tournament in 2017. The 2026 edition will be held across Australia and Papua New Guinea during October and November, featuring men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments.
Newcastle City Council expressed strong interest in hosting games late last year, highlighting the city's proven track record of supporting major sporting events. Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge previously described the opportunity as a 'no-brainer' for the region.
Hunter's Sporting Credentials
Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe, currently acting in the top role, emphasised Newcastle's readiness to host World Cup matches. 'Newcastle and the Hunter region have a strong NRL supporter base, and McDonald Jones Stadium is a world-class facility', Cr McCabe stated on Thursday.
The council's pitch to tournament organisers highlighted the city's excellent sporting infrastructure, including multiple training fields and growing accommodation options suitable for international teams.
Economic and Sporting Benefits
Hosting World Cup matches would deliver significant economic benefits to local businesses while creating legacy opportunities for the sporting community. The international exposure would further enhance Newcastle's reputation as a premier sporting destination.
McDonald Jones Stadium continues to build an impressive portfolio of elite sporting events. The 30,000-capacity Broadmeadow venue will host the Women's State of Origin series opener on April 30 next year, just five days after the Newcastle Jets play their first Anzac Day A-League Men's match.
This year alone, the stadium has welcomed Australia's national rugby union teams, the Matildas, and hosted the inaugural NRLW Magic Round in August. Looking further ahead, Newcastle is already scheduled to host four matches during the Rugby World Cup in 2027.
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will feature 10 teams in the men's competition and eight teams each in the women's and wheelchair tournaments. While the qualified teams are confirmed, the match draws and specific venues will be revealed in upcoming announcements, with Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium expected to host the men's final in mid-November.
