World Rugby has officially fired the starting gun on the race to host the Men's Rugby World Cup 2035, unveiling the selection process at the 17th World Rugby General Assembly. It sets up a heavyweight contest between England and South Africa, two nations steeped in rugby history and built to stage an event of this scale.
The contenders
England’s case is anchored in stadium reach and a packed market of rugby supporters, with the promise of widespread visibility and commercial heft. South Africa brings a fervent fan base, a proven big-event pedigree and the prospect of a tournament alive with atmosphere. Both unions know what it takes to deliver a global showpiece and both will view 2035 as a strategic opportunity to shape the sport’s next decade.
The process
With the selection framework now live, unions will move from signalling intent to assembling comprehensive bids. Timelines, bid milestones and evaluation mechanics have been set out by the governing body, with more detail expected as the field advances through formal stages.
Why it matters
The 2035 World Cup will influence rugby’s global footprint, commercial model and development pathways for years to come. Whether hosted in the northern or southern hemisphere, the tournament will be judged not just on spectacle but on the legacy it creates for communities, pathways and the next wave of supporters.
For now, the gauntlet has been thrown down. England and South Africa are out of the blocks, and the race to host rugby’s biggest men’s event is officially on.