2026 Rugby League World Cup Line-Up Finalized as Cook Islands Secure Last Spot
The line-up for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup is now confirmed after the Cook Islands sealed the final qualification spot with a decisive 58–6 victory over South Africa in Sydney.
Teams Confirmed for the Tournament
Ten nations will take part in the 2026 Men's Rugby League World Cup. The Cook Islands earned their place through a dominant play-off match, while other teams had already secured qualification through their respective regions.
- Cook Islands – Asia-Pacific Confederation
- Jamaica – Americas Confederation
- South Africa – Middle East-Africa Confederation
- France – Europe Confederation
Qualification Pathways
Each of the IRL’s full-member nations automatically advanced into the second round of qualifying. France won the European first round last autumn, setting up what was planned to be a World Series tournament between four teams for two remaining World Cup spots.
"With no suitable bids to host the proposed World Series, organizers decided instead that two play-off matches would determine the final qualifiers."
The play-offs were held across both hemispheres. France defeated Jamaica 36–0 in Albi to earn their place, and the Cook Islands overcame South Africa by a large margin in Sydney to claim the final slot.
Cook Islands Seal the Deal
The Cook Islands’ strong performance in the Southern Hemisphere play-off ensured their return to international spotlight. Their convincing win marked the conclusion of the qualification process for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Author’s summary: The Cook Islands completed the 2026 Rugby League World Cup line-up with a clear 58–6 win over South Africa, marking the end of the global qualification journey.