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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Exclusive by Aaron Bower

Australia poised to win race to host Rugby League World Cup in 2026

Australia's James Tedesco (centre) with the men's trophy, Australia's Kezie Apps (right) with the women's trophy and England's Tom Halliwell with the wheelchair trophy after the Rugby League World Cup final in 2022
Australia’s James Tedesco (centre) with the men’s trophy, Australia’s Kezie Apps (right) with the women’s trophy and England’s Tom Halliwell with the wheelchair trophy in 2022. Photograph: Tim Goode/PA

Australia are the frontrunners to win the race to host the next Rugby League World Cup in 2026, with an announcement expected about the rearranged tournament in the near future, the Guardian understands.

The next World Cup was originally scheduled to take place in France next year before the organisers pulled out, citing financial reasons. They were unable to meet stricter financial criteria laid out by the new French government, which meant the event was in danger of running at a loss.

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