The Rugby League World Cup was first held in France in 1954, with the inaugural champions, Great Britain, winning 16-12 in the final against the French at the Parc des Princes. The event quickly became the biggest tournament in international rugby league, and is typically held every 4 years. During the Rugby League World Cup 2021 (which was held in 2022), the women's and wheelchair Rugby League World Cup tournaments were added to the World Cup roster, starring in a combined event alongside the men's competition for the first time. The trio of tournaments will again take place simultaneously at the next Rugby League World Cup, with a revised format providing excellent games across all 3 competitions. The reigning Rugby League World Cup champions are Australia (men and women) and England (wheelchair).
Following France's withdrawal from hosting duties in 2023, the next Rugby League World Cup will be held in the Southern Hemisphere. The event was previously set to be staged in 2025, but this was revised following France's withdrawal: the Rugby League World Cup will instead be held in 2026.
