2026 Rugby League World Cup Line-Up Finalized
The lineup for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup is set, with the Cook Islands securing the final spot after a commanding 58-6 play-off victory against South Africa in Sydney.
Qualified Teams and Qualification Process
The ten nations competing in the men’s 2026 Rugby League World Cup have now been confirmed. The Cook Islands, Jamaica, and South Africa qualified automatically to the second round as the only full IRL members in their respective confederations: Asia-Pacific, Americas, and Middle East-Africa.
France earned their spot by winning the European first-round qualifying last autumn, which ideally would have led to a World Series tournament for two remaining World Cup places. However, due to the lack of suitable hosting bids, two play-off matches across hemispheres were arranged to decide those final spots.
Play-Off Results
- France defeated Jamaica 36-0 in Albi during the Northern Hemisphere play-off.
- The Cook Islands defeated South Africa 58-6 in Sydney in the Southern Hemisphere play-off, claiming the last place in the tournament.
The Kuki’s won convincingly, and thus claimed the final spot in the 2026 showpiece.
Summary
The qualification structure relied on regional automatic entries and critical play-offs, ultimately confirming a diverse group for the upcoming tournament.
Author’s summary: The Cook Islands' decisive win completed the 2026 Rugby League World Cup lineup, highlighting a qualification process shaped by regional memberships and play-off contests.
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