Rugby League World Cup Returns With High Stakes And New Format

Ten nations vie for glory as the Rugby League World Cup begins with a fresh format.

Ten national teams are competing for the Rugby League World Cup trophy under a revamped tournament format. Co-hosts Australia and New Zealand enter the competition as favorites, while England faces immediate pressure. Teams outside the traditional powerhouse nations are targeting long-term growth alongside tournament success.

• The formatThe tournament features ten teams split into a new group structure with the quarter-final stage removed.
• The co-hostsAustralia and New Zealand stage the international event on home soil.
• The motivationWigan forward Junior Nsemba aims to inspire young black athletes while representing England.