What's Happening?
Argentina is actively pursuing a bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, aiming to bring the event to South America for the first time. The bid involves collaboration with neighboring countries Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. World Rugby's chief executive,
Alan Gilpin, is currently visiting Argentina on a fact-finding mission before formal applications are submitted in the latter half of 2026. The Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, the largest stadium in South America, is a key venue in Argentina's proposal. The selection process by World Rugby will identify a preferred host in May 2027, with a final decision expected in November.
Why It's Important?
Hosting the Rugby World Cup would mark a significant milestone for Argentina and South America, as it would be the first time the event is held on the continent. This could enhance the region's visibility in the global sports arena and potentially boost tourism and local economies. The bid reflects Argentina's ambition to showcase its passion for rugby and its development across the region. Successful hosting could also inspire increased participation and investment in rugby throughout South America, further diversifying the sport's global footprint.
What's Next?
World Rugby will continue its site visits and assessments before identifying a preferred host in May 2027. Argentina will need to formalize its bid and demonstrate its capability to host such a large-scale event. The decision will be influenced by factors such as infrastructure, economic impact, and the ability to expand rugby's reach. Competing bids from Japan, Spain, and a potential joint Middle East bid will also be considered, making the selection process competitive.
