Sports · Other Sports · 1 hr ago
Men’s Rugby League World Cup returns with a new format
The men’s Rugby League World Cup returns this week with ten teams competing in a new format.
Australia, New Zealand, England and seven other nations are taking part.
The quarter-finals have been removed, leaving four semi-final places.
Four teams are in Group A, while Groups B and C use an inter-group table to decide two more semi-finalists.
Australia are defending champions and are seeking a record-extending 13th title, but the preview says New Zealand could challenge them.
England, led by new head coach Brian McDermott, have an early test against Tonga.
A defeat to Tonga could seriously damage England’s chances of reaching the semi-finals.
The men’s Rugby League World Cup returns this week with a new format involving 10 teams.
The quarter-final stage has been removed, leaving four places in the semi-finals.
Two semi-finalists will come from Group A, while the top two teams in a combined Group B and C table will also advance.
Australia are defending champions and are seeking a record-extending 13th title.
New Zealand, England and Tonga are among the teams expected to challenge Australia.
- Who
- Ten national teams, including defending champions Australia.
- What
- The men’s Rugby League World Cup returns with a new format and no quarter-finals.
- When
- This week, according to the article published on 13 October 2026.
- Where
- Australia is hosting the tournament.
- Why
- Not stated
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Australia are scheduled to open against New Zealand.
England are scheduled to play Tonga.
- Teams
- 10
- Semi-final places
- 4
- Group A semi-finalists
- 2
- Australia’s previous titles
- 12
- Defending champions
- Australia
Sources
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