Spain has formally submitted its bid to host the 2035 Men’s Rugby World Cup, marking the nation’s first-ever attempt to organize rugby union’s premier global tournament. The announcement comes as World Rugby prepares to evaluate hosting applications for the 12th edition of the men’s competition, with Spain positioning itself as a emerging force in European rugby development.
The Iberian nation’s candidacy represents a significant step in its long-term strategy to grow the sport beyond its traditional strongholds. Even as Spain has never previously hosted a Rugby World Cup match at any level, its bid reflects recent investments in grassroots participation and infrastructure aimed at elevating the national team’s competitiveness on the world stage.
According to verified tournament history, France last hosted the men’s Rugby World Cup in 2023, with matches held across nine venues including the Stade de France in Paris for the opening game and final. That edition featured 20 national teams and served as the most recent iteration before the planned expansion to 24 teams for the 2027 tournament in Australia.
Spain’s rugby federation has been actively developing the sport domestically, with increased focus on youth programs and league structures designed to build a sustainable pipeline of talent. The nation’s bid aligns with World Rugby’s broader strategic goals to expand the game’s global footprint, particularly in emerging rugby markets across Europe.
The 2035 hosting decision will follow a rigorous evaluation process conducted by World Rugby, assessing factors including stadium infrastructure, transportation networks, accommodation capacity, and commercial viability. Successful bids typically demonstrate strong government support, existing sports facilities capable of meeting international standards, and clear legacy plans for post-tournament development.
If selected, Spain would join a growing list of nations that have hosted the Men’s Rugby World Cup, including Latest Zealand, South Africa, England, Australia, France, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, and Argentina. The tournament has been held every four years since its inception in 1987, with South Africa currently holding the record for most titles at four.
World Rugby has not yet announced a timeline for the 2035 host selection process, though previous cycles have typically begun evaluations 4-5 years prior to the tournament date. The organization continues to emphasize player welfare and sustainable event management as key criteria in host city assessments.
For Spain, securing the 2035 Rugby World Cup would represent a transformative moment for rugby union in the country, potentially accelerating participation rates and inspiring a new generation of players and fans. The bid underscores the nation’s commitment to establishing itself as a credible host for major international sporting events beyond its established football and basketball traditions.
As the bidding process unfolds, World Rugby will evaluate all applications against strict technical and operational benchmarks designed to ensure tournament success and positive long-term impact for host nations. Spain’s official entry now enters this competitive field alongside any other nations that may declare their interest in hosting the 2035 edition.
The next confirmed checkpoint in the Rugby World Cup hosting cycle will be World Rugby’s official announcement of the shortlisted candidate nations, followed by detailed site inspections and final presentations before the ultimate host selection vote.
What are your thoughts on Spain’s bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup? Share your perspective in the comments below and join the conversation about the future of global rugby expansion.
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