Newcastle is poised to play a role in next year's Rugby League World Cup, with tournament organisers set to announce host venues next week. The 2026 edition, featuring men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments, will be held in Australia and Papua New Guinea in October and November.
The Newcastle Herald understands the World Cup will visit the Hunter region in some capacity. Newcastle council expressed interest in hosting games and training teams late last year, citing the city's strong record in supporting sporting events, ample training fields, and quality accommodation.
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge previously called it a 'no-brainer,' while Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said on Thursday that Newcastle would strongly welcome the opportunity. 'Newcastle and the Hunter region have a strong NRL supporter base, and McDonald Jones Stadium is a world-class facility,' she said.
Newcastle hosted a men's match during the 2008 World Cup between New Zealand and England but missed out in 2017. The next men's tournament features 10 teams, while the women's and wheelchair events have eight each. Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium is expected to host the men's final in mid-November.
Any matches at McDonald Jones Stadium would add to a growing list of elite sporting events in the Hunter, including the Women's State of Origin opener on April 30, 2025, and four games during the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
