Buenos Aires – Argentina has officially thrown its hat into the ring to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, marking a significant ambition to bring the tournament to South America for the first time. The Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) announced the bid on Tuesday, outlining a collaborative effort with Sudamérica Rugby and the national federations of Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. This potential joint bid aims to showcase the growing passion for rugby across the continent and build a lasting legacy for the sport.
The move comes as World Rugby continues to evaluate potential hosts for the 2035 edition, following confirmed tournaments in Australia (2027) and the United States (2031). Argentina’s bid represents a bold step forward for rugby in the Americas, a region increasingly recognized for its competitive spirit and dedicated fanbase. The UAR’s announcement signals a coordinated effort to present a compelling case to World Rugby, highlighting the region’s capacity to deliver a world-class event.
A Regional Approach to a Global Stage
According to a statement released by the UAR, the bid is driven by a desire to extend the impact of the Rugby World Cup beyond Argentina’s borders. President Gabriel Travaglini emphasized the “truly federal ambition” behind the project, stating, “Welcoming Alan Gilpin [World Rugby CEO] to advance this technical assessment is a key step in demonstrating that the region is ready.” Travaglini added, “We want to deliver a Rugby World Cup that reflects the passion and progress the game has achieved in every corner of our country.”
The involvement of Sudamérica Rugby is crucial, providing a regional framework for the bid and demonstrating a unified commitment to developing the sport throughout the continent. Collaboration with Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay suggests a potential distribution of matches and infrastructure across multiple nations, maximizing the tournament’s reach and impact. This approach aligns with World Rugby’s stated goals of globalizing the game and fostering growth in emerging markets.
Competition for the 2035 Tournament Heats Up
Argentina isn’t the only nation vying for the opportunity to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup. Japan, which successfully hosted the tournament in 2019, has as well formally submitted a bid. The Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) is hoping to build on the success of its previous hosting experience, demonstrating the country’s continued commitment to rugby. Other potential contenders include South Africa, Spain, and Italy. Adding to the mix is a prospective joint bid from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, signaling a growing interest in rugby from the Middle East.
The competition is fierce, and each bid will necessitate to demonstrate a robust infrastructure, strong financial backing, and a compelling vision for the tournament. Argentina’s strength lies in its passionate rugby culture and the growing success of its national team, Los Pumas. The Pumas have consistently performed well on the international stage, reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2007, 2015, and 2023 – a testament to the country’s dedication to the sport.
A History of Rugby in Argentina
Rugby has a long and storied history in Argentina, dating back to 1873 with the first recorded match played in Buenos Aires. The sport was initially introduced by British immigrants and quickly gained popularity among the local population. The Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) was formally established on April 10, 1899, initially as the River Plate Rugby Union. The UAR became a member of World Rugby in 1987 and a founding member of Sudamérica Rugby in 1988.
Over the years, Argentina has developed a strong domestic rugby league and a thriving national team program. The country’s players have become increasingly prominent in international competitions, with many competing in professional leagues around the world. The establishment of the Jaguares franchise, which participated in SANZAAR’s Super Rugby competition, further elevated the standard of rugby in Argentina and provided valuable experience for its players.
What’s Next for the Bid?
The UAR is currently working closely with World Rugby to assess the feasibility of its bid. Alan Gilpin’s recent visit to Argentina was a key step in this process, allowing for detailed discussions about the country’s infrastructure, logistical capabilities, and financial resources. The UAR will need to present a comprehensive plan to World Rugby, outlining its vision for the tournament and demonstrating its ability to deliver a successful event.
The next few months will be critical as the UAR refines its bid and addresses any concerns raised by World Rugby. The outcome of the evaluation process is expected in the coming years, with a final decision on the 2035 host likely to be made by 2027. For now, Argentina remains optimistic about its chances and committed to bringing the Rugby World Cup to South America for the first time.
The success of this bid would not only be a triumph for Argentina but also a significant milestone for the entire South American rugby community. It would provide a platform to showcase the region’s talent, inspire future generations of players, and further solidify rugby’s growing presence on the global stage.
Next Update: World Rugby is expected to provide an update on the bidding process and timeline during its annual conference in November 2026. Stay tuned to Archysport for the latest developments.
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