WORLD RUGBY LAUNCHES 2035 HOST SELECTION PROCESS

The process for the selection of the host nation for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2035 has been launched. World Rugby made the announcement today at the 17th World Rugby General Assembly in London.

The selection process kicks off in October 2025 and will culminate in the announcement of the host nation in November 2027. The host nation announcement will be made eight years in advance, a strategic approach by World Rugby to optimise the value, reach and impact of the Rugby World Cup.

According to World Rugby, this model, delivered through collaboration with governments, World Rugby member unions and key stakeholders, ensures consistent delivery standards, brand integrity, and maximised revenues.

There are four core principles that the selection process is structured around: Commercial optimisation, operational control through the owner-organiser model, contractual certainty before appointment, and transparency through a fair, collaborative and fully evaluated host selection process.

Hosting a Rugby World Cup is a lucrative event for the host nation. In 2023, more than 2.3 million people attended matches in France. In total, RWC 2023 generated 1.33 billion viewing hours and a record surplus of almost R11 billion for reinvestment back into the game.

Image credit: Talking Rugby Union