Rugby World Cup 2031 in the USA: What American Fans Need to Know
The biggest event in rugby is coming to America. Here is everything US fans should know about the 2031 Rugby World Cup and the 2033 women's edition.
The United States hosted the soccer World Cup in 1994 and again in 2026. Next up is another global giant. In 2022, World Rugby awarded the US the 2031 men's Rugby World Cup and the 2033 women's Rugby World Cup, the first time either tournament will be held in North America.
Why This Is a Big Deal
The Rugby World Cup is one of the most watched sporting events on the planet, with millions of fans traveling to follow teams like New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, France and England. Bringing it to America is a bet that the sport can grow here the way soccer did after 1994.
The US already has a lot going for it: huge stadiums, a strong college club scene, a fast growing youth game and plenty of fans who discovered rugby through the Olympics.
How the Tournament Works
The men's World Cup expanded to 24 teams starting with the 2027 tournament in Australia, and 2031 is planned the same way. The format uses:
- A pool stage, with teams split into groups that play each other once.
- A knockout stage for the teams that advance, ending in the final.
As the host nation, the USA Eagles qualify automatically, guaranteeing a home team on the biggest stage.
Where Will Games Be Played?
Organizers have said they want to use large American stadiums, the same kind of venues that host NFL games, and the final venue list will be confirmed by World Rugby and the US organizing committee. Expect big crowds in major sports markets.
The Women's Game in 2033
The 2033 women's Rugby World Cup may be just as important. American women's rugby has real momentum, highlighted by the USA women's sevens team winning bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the country's first Olympic medal in rugby sevens. That run turned several players into household names and introduced the sport to millions of new fans.
How to Get Ready as a Fan
If you are new to the sport, the next few years are the perfect time to learn it. Start with:
- Our rugby union rules guide for Americans
- Our breakdown of rugby vs. American football
- Our explainer on rugby sevens, the fast Olympic format
By 2031, you will be ready to explain a ruck to your friends.
Background from Wikipedia
2031 Men's Rugby World Cup
The 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup will be the 12th edition of the Men's Rugby World Cup, the quadrennial world championship for men's rugby union teams. It is scheduled to take place in the United States. This will be the first time the tournament is held in the Americas.
Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the USA?
Yes. World Rugby awarded the United States the hosting rights to the 2031 men's Rugby World Cup and the 2033 women's Rugby World Cup in 2022.
How many teams play in the Rugby World Cup?
The men's Rugby World Cup expanded to 24 teams starting with the 2027 tournament in Australia, and the 2031 event in the United States is planned with 24 teams as well.
Does the USA qualify automatically for 2031?
Yes. As the host nation, the United States qualifies automatically for the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
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