2026 Rugby League World Cup Line-Up Finalized
The final team for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup has been confirmed, with the Cook Islands securing the last berth after a dominant 58-6 win against South Africa in a play-off match held in Sydney.
Qualified Nations
The ten teams competing in the men's tournament are now set. The Cook Islands earned their spot comfortably in the Southern Hemisphere play-off, completing the lineup.
Qualifying Process
- The Cook Islands (Asia-Pacific), Jamaica (Americas), and South Africa (Middle East-Africa) received automatic advancement to the second qualifying round as the only full IRL member nations in their confederations.
- France secured their place by winning the European first round qualifying last autumn.
Originally, a World Series was planned involving four nations competing for the two remaining World Cup spots. Due to the lack of suitable hosting bids, the decision was made to hold two play-off matches instead, split between hemispheres.
Northern Hemisphere Play-Off
France defeated Jamaica decisively, 36-0, in Albi last month to secure their World Cup participation.
Southern Hemisphere Play-Off
The Cook Islands and South Africa competed for the final vacancy, with the Cook Islands overwhelmingly victorious in Sydney.
"The Kuki’s won convincingly, and thus claimed the final spot in the 2026 showpiece."
Summary
With the Cook Islands' win, the ten-team lineup for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup is complete, set to take place next autumn.
Author's summary: The Cook Islands' dominant play-off victory over South Africa sealed the final place, completing the ten-team field for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
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