The selection of the host nation for the 2035 Rugby World Cup (RWC) represents more than just a logistical decision; it will define World Rugby’s long-term strategy. Will the organization prioritize the commercial imperatives of new global markets or solidify the sport’s foundations within Europe?
The European Mandate: A Desired Return
World Rugby’s executive leadership, notably CEO Alan Gilpin, has publicly expressed a strong preference for the tournament to return to European soil following the 2031 excursion into North America. This sentiment has energized several European unions, setting the stage for a tight continental contest.
Spain: The Frontrunner’s Claim
Spain has emerged as a major contender. The country’s rugby union president, Carlos Hansen, has confirmed the submission of an official bid. Hosting the RWC would serve as a powerful catalyst for Spanish rugby, leveraging existing infrastructure and appealing to a geographically convenient fanbase.
Italy: The Six Nations Perennial Bidder
Perhaps the most ironic subplot of the bidding process involves Italy. Despite being a core member of the Six Nations Championship, Italy remains the only country in that elite group never to have hosted the flagship tournament. The federation’s leadership, including executive Marzio Innocenti, confirmed readiness to host either the 2035 or 2039 event. Having failed in two previous attempts, Italy views this as a crucial opportunity to finally bring the tournament home.
The Lure of Emerging Markets: The Middle Eastern Trio
In a direct challenge to the European traditionalists, three major Middle Eastern nations have expressed significant interest in hosting the 2035 tournament. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are all positioning themselves as viable venues, supported by extensive capital and an aggressive strategy to establish a foothold in global sporting events.
For World Rugby, the choice involves assessing whether the immediate financial benefits and the potential for market expansion outweigh concerns about fan experience and existing rugby culture. These nations represent massive, untapped commercial markets, a factor that cannot be ignored in the increasingly commercialized landscape of global sport.
Global Aspirations and Collaborative Efforts
The bidding pool extends far beyond the traditional economic and sporting hubs, showcasing global interest in the event:
- Japan: The Proven Host. Following the profound success of the 2019 RWC—an event widely praised for its organization and atmosphere—Japan formally expressed its desire to enter the race for 2035 in October 2025. Japan offers guaranteed operational excellence and demonstrated fan engagement.
- South America: A Unified Bid. Leading the charge for the Southern Hemisphere is Argentina, which plans a joint bid in collaboration with its neighbors: Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile. This collaborative effort aims to distribute the immense financial and logistical burden, creating a potentially historic Pan-American hosting arrangement centered around the burgeoning strength of the Pumas.
The Economic Reality Check
While ambition is abundant, the financial commitment required to host the RWC is staggering. A notable absence from the confirmed bidding list is South Africa. Despite its deep rugby history and pedigree, the leadership of SA Rugby indicated that the nation`s current economic climate does not support the hosting of such a large-scale international sporting event. This decision serves as a pragmatic reminder that national economic readiness is now as critical as sporting passion in securing the hosting rights.
The 2035 RWC race is not merely about stadiums; it is a critical test of World Rugby`s global vision. The organization must balance the integrity of the sport`s history (Europe) against the compelling financial and expansionist arguments presented by the new geopolitical players and the unified ambitions of South America. The eventual winner will inherit the responsibility of driving the global game into a new era.
Rupert Caldwell