United States to host its first Rugby World Cup

According to Eagles international Nick Civetta, the United States hosting its first Rugby World Cup would be a “game-changer” for the sport in the country.

Following a decision by its ruling council in Dublin on Thursday, World Rugby is due to reveal the locations of five World Cups, with the United States slated to host both the men’s and women’s editions in 2031 and 2033, respectively.

The Covid-delayed women’s World Cup will be held in New Zealand this year, with the men’s competition taking place in France in 2023.

England is the favourite to host the 2025 World Cup, with Australia set to host the men’s tournament in 2027 and the women’s tournament two years later.

According to Eagles international Nick Civetta, the United States hosting its first Rugby World Cup would be a “game-changer” for the sport.

Following a decision by its ruling council in Dublin on Thursday, World Rugby will announce the locations of five World Cups, with the United States poised to host both the men’s and women’s editions in 2031 and 2033, respectively.

The women’s World Cup will be held in New Zealand this year, after the men’s event will be held in France in 2023.

England is the favourite to host the World Cup in 2025, with Australia set to host the men’s tournament in 2027 and the women’s tournament two years later.

All of these countries, however, are established rugby union nations, whereas the 15-a-side game is still a newcomer in a market dominated by native North American sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey.

Civetta, one of three American internationals on the Oxford squad that overcame arch-rivals Cambridge in the University match at Twickenham in April, told Britain’s Press Association, “Getting the World Cup would clearly be important in the long run.”

Major League Rugby (MLR), a league including former England captain Chris Robshaw, has grown club rugby in the United States.

“The MLR is developing in terms of quality of play and visibility every week,” Civetta added.