France has officially declared its intention to bid for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup.
After being nominated by the International Rugby League (IRL) as its “preferred hosts”, the French Federation will work with IRL and the French government to prepare and assess a business plan.
“After the 2024 Paris Olympics, we are preparing for the Rugby League World Cup in 2025 with a major bid that brings together the men’s, women’s, wheelchair and youth events,” Federation president Luc Lacoste said on Thursday.
“At the heart of this great project is a strong message, ‘sport for all’, which will be reflected, first and foremost, in the choice of host cities and regional metropolitan partners, stadiums, large and small, as well as affordable prices.”
Organisers intend to include 64 national teams with 16 in each competition, representing the five continents and encompassing more than 80 matches.
The organising committee will be led by Michel Weiner, director of development for major events at La Poste, who will be joined by Soisic Le Bourg, an experienced marketing and commercial director, and Robert Zarader, an expert in public affairs and communication.
They will be supported by Lacoste and former French captain and current secretary general of the federation Dominique Baloup.
IRL secretary general Danny Kazandjian, who with Lacoste made an initial presentation to the French government, said: “We are encouraged by their response and have agreed that France are the preferred candidates for the organisation of RLWC2025.
“We continue to support the development of a compelling business plan and presentation to the government, and we believe that, for many reasons, France will be able to deliver the largest World Cup ever.”
IRL has previously outlined its intention to announce the next hosts before the 2021 World Cup kicks off on October 23.
Organisers of the England-based tournament have yet to confirm its go-ahead as they await a commitment from Australia, but even if it was delayed until 2022, it is expected the next one will still be held in 2025.
Michael Carbone
Guest
But why is it called a World Cup?
jimmmy
Roar Rookie
Man , you have a sad heart and I really do wish you well. Not sure what sport or activities you like doing but go out and get into them. Be enthusiastic. Take the positive road. Look upwards . Set yourself some goals. Once you make some progress your world will change.
MUCK
Roar Rookie
How good was it in Avignon , I loved that marching band before the game . Showed you dont need to spend a small fortune on a whole production of nonsense . Just a lap of the field beating the drums , tooting the horns , national anthems and kick off .
jimmmy
Roar Rookie
Hes a very sad man Fred.
Michael Carbone
Guest
Where have you been Fred?? Mascord writes nothing for 18 months and after his first article back you pop up again
Fred
Guest
Hey you must be that bloke that comes up with a new name but the same negative comments for every single article on international league? I thought you might have moved on with your life, but it seems you're still obsessing about the same thing.
Fred
Guest
Sounds like an awesome time in France mate! I would love to go there in 2025.
Callan Sinclair
Guest
Na the Australian that was going to fund it realised it would have been a massive waste of money so he pulled his money. Just like what happened to the NARL
Adelaide Saint
Roar Rookie
Couldn't agree more,I was also there in 2013 & loved every minute. Was saving (money & holidays) feverishly for RLWC2021 until some virus got in the way of my travel plans. France would be an experience,here's hoping we can make it.
Big Daddy
Roar Rookie
I had the impression that U.S were going to hold it but that obviously that has fallen through. In all honesty it should be alternated between U.K/ France and Australia/ NZ . Anywhere outside these 2 areas is a total waste of time.
Michael Carbone
Guest
Please tell us more Freddy!! Remember the "sellouts" you called at the last "World" Cup? Some where even half the stadiums were empty!
Tim Carter
Roar Pro
I don't like cheese. Can I just sample the wine?
MUCK
Roar Rookie
I was over there for the 2013 WC. Watched the opening two games in Cardiff and it was ok but the openning ceremony was a bit meh. Also watched Aus v Ire in Limmerick and it was better but the locals werent too interedted. But inbetween thos two games I went to Avignon and watched France v NZ and it was fantastic . A complete walkover by NZ but the French were mad for it . A large marching band kicked it off around the stadium and it was far better than the airy tripe they served up as entertaiment in Wales. Tickets and seating didnt mean much as people just squeezed in where they could. It was awesome . World Cup in France , count me in . Wine , beer , cheese , marching bands and mad french fans . Youd be mad to miss it.
Noodles
Roar Rookie
I’d prefer it take turns being in alternate hemisphere but if it helps grow the game then that’s all that matters
Tony
Roar Guru
One of your more profound statements
Fred
Guest
Rugby league gets pretty good crowds in the south, in cities like Perpignan, Avignon and Toulouse. 18,000 turned out in Avignon to watch the Frogs play Samoa in the last world cup match held in France. Catalans Dragons are currently leading the Super League.
Nat
Roar Guru
Distance is immaterial between a vat of wine and 1000 cheeses.
Nat
Roar Guru
Not sure what sort of crowds they wll expect but it can only be good for the game there. In fact, a footy tour through France sounds pretty good.
Tony
Roar Guru
Seems a strange move given that only about 4 of the players appearing would actually be based in France.