Footy in shock as Rugby League World Cup plans are left in tatters as France refuses to host event over money worries – and Australia could be forced to save the tournament
- Comes after North America also pulled out as hosts
- Australia looms as a logical replacement nation
- Still sad decline of the French rugby league
Australia has emerged as the possible savior of the Rugby League World Cup after France became the second host to pull out of hosting the event in 2025.
Following the success of last year’s World Cup in England, it was hoped that the 2025 tournament could restore pride in the game in France after the long decline in the once strong country.
However, the 2025 Rugby League World Cup faces an uncertain future after France announced it would no longer hold the event due to financial concerns.
It comes after original hosts Canada and the United States also pulled out in 2018 due to money issues.
France was once a rugby league stronghold, reaching the World Cup final in 1954 against England and 1968 against Australia.
The French would be a constant threat during the World Cup until 1992, when interest in the sport declined sharply. The French team has since failed to reach the semi-finals.
France’s decision to withdraw from the Rugby League World Cup organization comes after the sport’s long decline there, with the country failing to reach a World Cup semi-final since 1992 (at the picture French player Benjamin Garcia being tackled against Australia at the 2017 World Cup)
Australia is rugby league’s undisputed powerhouse thanks to its cashed-in NRL and huge public interest, making it the logical choice as replacement host
France once pushed Britain and Australia to their limits at the height of its power
As there is currently no alternate host, Australia may be called upon to save the tournament.
France’s organizing committee released a statement on Monday explaining that it cannot guarantee the financial viability of the event and has therefore decided to relinquish its hosting rights.
“Despite all the work of the organizing committee, it has not been possible to fully secure the risk of shortage,” the statement said.
“Despite the interest shown in this unique sport … and accessible to all thanks to our ticket prices, and despite the desire of several cities across France to host World Cup matches, the Board had to decide not to organize this major international competition, which the International Rugby League had entrusted to France.
“This difficult decision has been made so as not to compromise the robustness of the major international sporting event models that France is now seeking to promote.
“In addition, the state will strengthen support for the federation-backed development plan for rugby league to ensure that this sport gains greater visibility and shine again in France.”
A World Cup at home would give NRL fans the chance to see the Kangaroos in action against the best talent from around the world (pictured, Latrell Mitchell celebrating at England’s 2022 World Cup final)
While the 2022 World Cup in England was a resounding success, it was another lousy tournament for France
The International Rugby League (IRL) expressed its disappointment at the decision, with IRL President Troy Grant stating: ‘It is no secret how important the strengthening of France as a rugby league nation is to our global game and central to our strategic plan.’
Grant also acknowledged the challenges of the pandemic and the short lead time for the 2025 World Cup, but stressed the importance of capitalizing on the success of England’s 2022 event.
Samoa was the surprise package of the 2022 World Cup, reaching the final against Australia
A World Cup in Australia would give league fans in Samoa and Tonga the chance to travel to see their national team without having to go to the Northern Hemisphere
Grant confirmed that the IRL would “accelerate our consideration of other contingency options” in light of France’s withdrawal.
“The board will meet in person in July and then together we can determine our next steps forward and consider the other bids we have received for not only 2025, but also for 2029, 2033 and World Cup 9 events in the future,” he said . said.
“Exciting international content for 2023 and 2024, in addition to the recent historic Tongan tour to England, will be publicly announced shortly, which will be the front of our much-needed and highly anticipated calendar.”