World Rugby Shortlists 27 Cities for 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup

World Rugby has confirmed that 27 cities and areas have formally entered the applicant phase to host matches during the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup, which will be staged in the United States.

The announcement was made at the United by Rugby Summit in Chicago, just before what is expected to be a sold-out Ireland vs. New Zealand test match at Soldier Field.

The international federation had initially released an expression of interest phase that garnered widespread interest. In the end, 27 destinations (offering 33 potential venues), including one from Canada, signed letters of intent to continue in the process.

 “The enthusiastic response from across the U.S. has been extraordinary,” World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said. “These cities and areas represent not only iconic sports destinations but also new, emerging, and existing rugby communities. Their commitment underscores the opportunity Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 presents to cement the United States’ status as a major player in global rugby, but also to inspire and unite new fans, audiences, and commercial partners for the sport more broadly to deliver lasting impact.”

World Rugby has not said how many destinations will make the final cut, the list will be trimmed down in late 2026. Those cities will move to a candidate phase to mark the start of formal contracting. World Rugby intends to announce the final selection of host cities and venues following the completion of Rugby World Cup 2027, with the tournament draw and match allocation scheduled for late 2029 or early 2030.

“This is an exciting and collaborative journey,” Gilpin said. “Rugby World Cup 2031 will be more than a tournament. It will be a nationwide celebration of sport, community, and culture, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of the United States.”

The following destinations will move on in the process:
Arizona
Atlanta
Baltimore
Birmingham
Boston
Charlotte
Chicago
Cincinnati
Denver
Houston
Kansas City
Los Angeles
Miami
Minneapolis
Nashville
New Orleans
New York/New Jersey
Orlando
Philadelphia
Pittsburgh
Salt Lake City
San Diego
San Francisco Bay Area
Seattle
St. Louis
Vancouver
Washington DC

Over the next 14 months, World Rugby and USA Rugby will assess, evaluate and collaborate with the remaining cities during a detailed engagement process. This includes:

• Team base feasibility visits, which are already underway
• In-depth venue evaluations, beginning in November 2025
• Sharing of detailed hosting requirements, opportunities and legacy potential