The Race to Host the 2035 Rugby World Cup: Spain Takes the Lead
The excitement surrounding the bid for the 2035 Rugby World Cup is palpable, especially with Spain officially stepping into the ring. This announcement, made by Real Federación Española de Rugby president Carlos Hansen, sets the stage for a fierce competition among nations hoping to host rugby’s premier tournament.
Upcoming Tournaments: A Look Ahead
Before diving into the 2035 bid, it’s essential to note where the Rugby World Cup will be held in the coming years. Australia is set to host the tournament in 2027, followed by the United States in 2031. With these two major events on the horizon, the anticipation for global rugby grows stronger, paving the way for future tournaments.
Europe: A Desired Destination
Earlier this year, World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin hinted at a strong desire for the World Cup to return to Europe in 2035. Given Europe’s rich rugby heritage, it’s no surprise that several nations are vying for the opportunity to showcase the tournament. Spain’s announcement cements their status as one of the frontrunners, but competition is fierce.
Spain Enters the Fray
Carlos Hansen’s announcement about Spain’s official bid underscores the nation’s ambition to make a mark on the rugby world stage. Despite facing strong contenders like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE—who are collaborating on a joint bid—Spain is determined to showcase its passion for rugby. A World Cup hosted in Spain could bring the sport to iconic football stadiums like Santiago Bernabéu and Camp Nou, further elevating rugby’s profile in the country.
The Competition Heats Up
Spain’s bid is not the only noteworthy announcement. Japan, having successfully hosted the World Cup in 2019, confirmed its intention to bid in October 2025. Furthermore, Argentina may lead a South American bid alongside Uruguay, Chile, and Brazil. Meanwhile, Italy has also expressed interest, with Federazione Italiana Rugby director Marzio Innocenti indicating a desire to host either in 2035 or 2039. It’s worth mentioning that Italy remains the only Six Nations country yet to host World Cup matches.
South Africa’s Potential Re-Entry
Adding another layer of intrigue, South Africa could also enter the bidding process, despite previously stating it lacked the financial resources to compete. With a history of successfully hosting events—most notably in 1995—SA Rugby is exploring the feasibility of a bid and continues to seek discussions with World Rugby.
The Road to Redemption for Spain
Spain’s attempt to host the World Cup isn’t just about the prestige of the event; it’s also a chance for redemption. The country will make its long-awaited return to the World Cup in Australia in 2027 after being disqualified from previous tournaments due to eligibility violations. In 2018, they faced disqualification for fielding ineligible players during qualifiers. Similarly, in 2022, an incident involving falsified documentation led to their exclusion from the World Cup. This upcoming opportunity in 2027 marks a critical moment for Spanish rugby, as they look to reclaim their place on the world stage.
The Bid Announcement
Hansen expressed his excitement through a video posted on the union’s social media, noting the work ahead for Spain. He stated, “So, an exciting year is coming for us. Years are coming where we want to change, we want to keep working to improve this rugby.” His optimism and commitment indicate a robust campaign to secure the hosting rights for 2035.
A Bright Future for Spanish Rugby
A World Cup in Spain promises not only to elevate the sport within the country but also to galvanize local support and enthusiasm for rugby. With the prospect of matches taking place in some of Spain’s most iconic venues, the bid could serve as a vital catalyst in popularizing the sport for future generations.
As the race for the 2035 Rugby World Cup heats up, eyes will be firmly fixed on Spain and its competitors. The coming years will be crucial in determining which nation ultimately secures the honor of hosting this prestigious event.