Newcastle Poised to Host Rugby League World Cup 2021 Opening Ceremony
In a significant development for the upcoming 2021 Rugby League World Cup, it has been confirmed that Newcastle’s iconic St James’ Park will host the tournament’s opening ceremony and England’s first match. This announcement further solidifies the city’s growing reputation as a premier destination for rugby events and enthusiasts.
Venues Unveiled for Inclusive Tournament
Out of 40 applicants, the successful venues for the 31 men’s matches, as well as the women’s and wheelchair tournaments, were unveiled today in Manchester. Organizers aim to deliver the most inclusive Rugby League World Cup yet, with the men’s, women’s, and wheelchair events running concurrently for the first time.
Massive Global Audience and Economic Impact
The Rugby League World Cup 2021 is expected to draw a massive global audience, with all 65 matches set to be broadcast live on the BBC, reaching an estimated 150 million viewers across 115 territories. The tournament’s economic impact is also anticipated to be substantial, with the previous edition in 2013 generating £12.3m and £8.5m for London and Cardiff, respectively.
“I would like to congratulate all of our chosen hosts who have worked so hard in submitting such compelling bids,” said Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of the Rugby League World Cup 2021. “Each and every host now has the opportunity to galvanize and inspire their respective communities ahead of the competing nations arriving in England.”
Backing and Venue Selection
With government backing worth £25 million, including a £10 million legacy pledge, the majority of the fixtures (approximately 24 out of 31) will be staged in the sport’s traditional northern heartland. This strategic placement will help the organizers achieve their ambitious viewership and attendance targets, while also showcasing the game to new audiences.
The announcement that St James’ Park will host the opening ceremony and England’s first match is a significant victory for Newcastle, further cementing the city’s status as a premier rugby destination. As rugby league fans eagerly await the 2021 tournament, the stage is set for a truly inclusive and memorable event that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.
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