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World Rugby has confirmed that 27 cities and areas have formally entered the Applicant Phase of the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 Host Selection Process, marking a major milestone on the journey to the first-ever Rugby World Cup hosted in the U.S.
The announcement was made at the United by Rugby Summit in Chicago, on the eve of the sold-out Ireland v New Zealand test match at Soldier Field, celebrating the continued rise of rugby in the U.S. and the sport’s growing global reach.
Following the conclusion of the initial Expression of Interest stage, 27 cities/areas (featuring 33 venues) have now submitted signed Letters of Intent to continue in the selection process.
The applicants are:
Arizona, Atlanta, Baltimore, Birmingham, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles Region, Miami, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, New York/New Jersey, Orlando, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, St. Louis, Vancouver, and Washington DC.
“On behalf of our Chairman, Caesar Lopez, and the 138 members of our Board of Directors, we are thrilled that Orlando has been named a candidate host city for the 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “As the world’s premier vacation destination, hosting major international sporting events is in our DNA. Our region’s unmatched hospitality, first-class venues, and spirit of collaboration ensure that Orlando will deliver an unforgettable experience for the global rugby community.”
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “The enthusiastic response from across the U.S. has been extraordinary. These cities represent not only iconic sports destinations but also new, emerging, and existing rugby communities. Their commitment underscores the opportunity Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 presents to cement the U.S.’s status as a major player in global rugby, but also to inspire and unite new fans, audiences, and commercial partners for the sport more broadly to deliver lasting impact...”
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