Overview
- The applicant pool spans 26 U.S. cities plus Vancouver, accounting for 33 proposed stadiums.
- Team‑base feasibility visits are already underway, with in‑depth venue evaluations set to begin in November 2025.
- World Rugby and USA Rugby will run a 14‑month assessment before advancing selected locations to the Candidate Phase.
- Timelines for narrowing the field differ across reports, with some indicating end‑2026 and others pointing to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with final selections to follow RWC 2027.
- Forbes reports World Rugby intends to invest over $250 million in American rugby as part of its U.S. Growth Plan, and cities not chosen to host matches may still serve as team base camps.