Overview
- World Rugby confirmed that 27 U.S. cities or areas plus Vancouver have entered the Applicant Phase after submitting letters of intent, together proposing 33 potential venues.
- Team-base feasibility visits are already underway, with in-depth stadium evaluations scheduled to begin in November 2025.
- A reduced slate will advance to the Candidate Phase by the end of 2026, with final host city selections to follow Rugby World Cup 2027 and a draw with match allocations expected by late 2029.
- The 2031 event will be the first Rugby World Cup staged in the United States and is tied to World Rugby’s U.S. Growth Plan, which includes a reported $250 million investment.
- Vancouver is the lone Canadian applicant, local leaders in cities such as Houston and Kansas City welcomed the news, and non-host cities may still serve as team base camps.