Rugby Union

Argentina to lead South America bid for Rugby World Cup

Mar 19, 2026

Argentina v Australia — Argentina, here beating Australia in Santa Fe 2024, will lead South America's bid to stage the RWC. -AP

Argentina will bid to stage the 2035 World Cup as part of a wider South American tournament that will also include Brazil, Chile and Uruguay.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin is visiting the home of the Pumas to assess their feasibility as hosts for the event that will take place after Australia host the 2027 tournament and USA the 2031 RWC.

"The 2035 bid represents a federal objective and a legacy project that transcends our borders," said Gabriel Travaglini, president of Argentina's rugby union.

"Welcoming Alan Gilpin to advance this technical analysis is a fundamental step in demonstrating that the region is ready.

"We want a World Cup that reflects the passion and development that rugby has achieved in every corner of our territory."

Formal applications for hosting rights will be submitted this autumn with a preferred host identified in May 2027 before World Rugby's council gives final approval the following November.

Argentina would be a popular destination for the 13th edition of the World Cup and worthy hosts given they have reached the semi-finals three times. They are currently positioned fifth in the global rankings, one place above England.

Japan, Spain, Italy and a combined Middle East bid are shaping up to be their rivals to put on the tournament.