Rugby World Cups in U.S. Could Cost $500M

The cost to host the 2031 and 2033 Rugby World Cups in the U.S. is expected to reach approximately $500 million, according to USA Rugby, the sport’s national governing body. 

USA Rugby submitted a bid in October 2021 to host the 2027 or 2031 Rugby World Cup. A month later, World Rugby, the event’s organizer and governing body for the sport, entered into exclusive talks with USA Rugby to host the 2031 tournament. 

Hosting the Rugby World Cups, which are held every four years, in the U.S. is an effort to grow the sport and attract new fans. 

• Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, and New York have expressed interest in hosting.
• Some of the tournament’s matches could be played in NFL stadiums.
• A final decision on hosts for the 2027 and 2029 tournaments is expected on May 12. 

USA Rugby has also submitted bids to host the 2029 and 2033 women’s Rugby World Cups. The events would allow USA Rugby to showcase its ability to host successive tournaments. A final decision on the 2029 women’s tournament will also be delivered on May 12. 

Better Days Ahead

In March 2020, USA Rugby filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to “insurmountable financial constraints” sparked by the global pandemic. Six months later, USA Rugby exited bankruptcy with a five-year reimbursement plan with creditors.

USA Rugby plans to fund its bid for the Rugby World Cup with support from the U.S. government and World Rugby.