South Africa Among Six Contenders to Host 2035 Rugby World Cup

The countdown begins in October 2025, when nations can put their hands up to host, with the final decision set for November 2027.

Locking in a host eight years out is now standard practice, giving World Rugby the room to maximise value, expand the game globally, and keep the Rugby World Cup at the top of the sporting world.

The Rugby World Cup isn’t just a tournament – it’s the sport’s financial powerhouse.

RWC 2023 in France smashed records with 2.3 million fans attending, 1.33 billion viewing hours worldwide, and a record £472m surplus pumped back into the game. It also delivered a staggering €1.8bn in spending and an €871m net economic gain for France, alongside major community and fan-driven initiatives.

World Rugby says this new model – working closely with governments, unions and venues well in advance – ensures commercial strength, event consistency and long-term growth.

World Rugby has set four guiding principles: commercial optimisation, operational control, contractual certainty, and transparency. In other words – big money, secure deals, and a fair fight.

Spain is emerging as a dark horse in the race to host Rugby World Cup 2035. With its status as a global tourism hotspot, the country can offer visitors a combination of world-class cities, iconic cultural landmarks and easy travel. Crucially, it boasts renovated mega-stadiums like the Camp Nou in Barcelona (105,000 capacity) and the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, as well as excellent transport links across the country.

The main challenge lies in rugby’s relatively modest domestic presence compared to football. Scheduling matches around La Liga fixtures could also prove tricky. Still, Spain’s blend of glamour and infrastructure makes it a genuine contender.

England is the tried-and-tested option. Having hosted in 1991 and 2015, it already has the blueprint for a successful tournament. Twickenham Stadium, alongside a network of Premier League grounds, means facilities are top class. The country’s huge rugby fanbase almost guarantees sell-outs, ensuring World Rugby a financial win.

But therein lies the drawback – it may simply be too safe. With calls to diversify hosting and explore new frontiers, a third Rugby World Cup in England within 45 years could feel repetitive to some stakeholders.

Italy is another Six Nations nation keen to throw its hat in the ring. The country has a passionate rugby following in the north, with cities like Treviso and Parma forming the heart of its domestic game. Italy can also point to a solid network of stadiums, including Serie A grounds that could be adapted for rugby.

However, infrastructure upgrades would be required, and commercially it may not pack the same punch as Spain. Italy’s cultural appeal is undeniable, but in the high-stakes world of Rugby World Cup hosting, it may struggle to outshine its Iberian neighbour.

The Gulf States bring financial muscle to the table like no other. Backed by enormous investment, they can offer gleaming, modern stadiums and the opportunity for the first Rugby World Cup in the Middle East. For World Rugby, that global expansion narrative is tempting.

Yet, the challenges are considerable. The searing September and October heat could make conditions extremely tough. Add to that the lack of a deep-rooted rugby culture and ongoing political and human rights concerns, and the bid may face intense scrutiny.

Few nations breathe rugby like South Africa. The Springboks are icons on the global stage, and the nation’s hosting of the 1995 Rugby World Cup remains one of the sport’s defining moments. From rugby to football, South Africa’s stadiums have seen it all—and the energy would be electric.

Passion is never in question. But economic instability and political uncertainty could tip the scales in World Rugby’s decision-making. The governing body may also be keen to explore new markets rather than returning to a familiar powerhouse.

SARU is ready to test the waters but wants clarity on the hosting conditions before committing. Early discussions with World Rugby are promising, but whether the government would back the bid financially remains an open question.

Japan lit up the rugby world in 2019, delivering one of the most memorable World Cups in history. The tournament expanded rugby’s reach in Asia, sparked new fan engagement, and proved that so-called “non-traditional” nations can host with flair. Japan’s infrastructure, transport and hospitality also remain strong assets.

However, a return just 16 years later might feel premature. Some stadiums are smaller than their European counterparts, and World Rugby may judge that it’s too soon for a repeat appearance in Asia.