The Exciting Future of Rugby in the U.S. following the Pacific Nations Cup

When the Pacific Nations Cup wrapped up its final weekend of competition in Salt Lake City, one notable team was absent: the United States. This absence, however, was offset by the thrill of history being made earlier in the tournament. With a decisive 29-13 victory over Samoa in Denver, the U.S. secured its spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup—its first appearance since 2019—a pivotal milestone as the country gears up for the tournament on home soil in 2031.

A Historic Moment for USA Rugby

Mick Hogan, a consultant for USA Rugby and World Rugby, described this achievement as “the single most significant event in the last seven or eight years.” His sentiments underscore the competitive nature of the U.S. sports market, which thrives on success stories. The recent victory signals an upward trajectory for the U.S. men’s rugby team, indicating a new era of competitive play on the international stage.

Building Momentum Through Success

The success of the U.S. men’s team is paralleled by the women’s squad, which narrowly missed the quarterfinals in this summer’s Women’s World Cup in England. This performance further cements the foundation for upcoming World Cups in the U.S. in 2031 and 2033. As World Rugby intensifies its focus on establishing rugby as a mainstream sport in America, Hogan emphasized, “We’re going to be doing annual events over the next six to eight years,” highlighting the organization’s commitment to elevating the sport’s visibility.

The Future of Rugby Events in the U.S.

What does this annual event schedule entail? For starters, fans can expect several international weekends next summer, although the exact planning will have to navigate the logistics of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, Hogan mentioned upcoming four-team events spread over multiple weekends, alongside marquee matchups such as the anticipated New Zealand vs. Ireland game in Chicago next month. These gatherings are not just about the games; they serve to drape the sport in a wider cultural context, connecting communities and enhancing participation in rugby.

Host City Aspirations for World Cups

With the 2031 and 2033 World Cups on the horizon, cities across the nation are angling to host matches. Ross Young, World Rugby’s general manager for U.S. operations, revealed that the governing body has already scouted 46 venues across 35 cities interested in hosting events. This proactive approach signals a strong commitment to making the upcoming tournaments a resounding success. A crucial workshop in Chicago, tied to the New Zealand vs. Ireland match, aims to solidify key venues by early 2027, with an aspiration for nearly 30 cities to formally engage in the bidding process.

Navigating the Challenges of Venue Logistics

One unique aspect of these upcoming World Cups is the use of venues that frequently host Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Football League (NFL) games. Young explained that unlike typical Rugby World Cups, where access to venues is often secured well in advance, the U.S. setup may necessitate moving in and out of several sites. As such, organizers are estimating that between 13 to 15 venues will be required for the 2031 event, emphasizing the logistical challenges ahead.

The Value of Experience

Cities aiming to host matches are not only focused on the facilities but also on the experiential aspect of rugby. Multiple cities sent representatives to experience the atmosphere during the Women’s World Cup in England, a calculated decision that aligns with their potential bids. Hogan aptly noted, “You can show all the videos you want… but to actually be there, see the fans or see the city, you can’t measure atmosphere.” This first-hand experience is invaluable for city officials as they engage with their communities to advocate for the importance of hosting a significant global event, such as the Rugby World Cup.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

The allure of the Rugby World Cup extends beyond the sport itself and into the economic ramifications for host cities. With estimates suggesting that the Rugby World Cup ranks among the world’s largest sporting events, the potential economic impact is substantial. Local officials recognize that being part of such an event is not just about hosting matches; it’s about how it can enhance community pride, promote tourism, and stimulate local economies. As cities prepare their bids, these factors weigh heavily in their discussions and decisions.

The future of rugby in the U.S. is bright and full of promise, with a landscape rife with opportunities for growth, engagement, and celebration of the sport. Each moment leading up to the World Cups serves as a stepping stone toward solidifying rugby’s place in American culture, crafting a legacy that will resonate for years to come.