Rugby League World Cup 2026 on Premier Sports
Premier Sports has secured the UK and Ireland rights to broadcast the Rugby League World Cup.
The pay broadcaster will show every game from the men’s, women’s and wheelchair editions of the competition, which take place concurrently in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea from October.
Premier will have bespoke studio coverage around England men’s and women’s matches, while for other men’s matches it will take the coverage produced by Aussie broadcaster Channel 7.
“We are delighted to be bringing the Rugby League World Cup back to Premier Sports viewers, having previously broadcast the tournament in 2013 and 2017,” said Premier Sports CEO Richard Sweeney.
“This is one of the major events in the international sporting calendar and we are looking forward to showing every match from the men’s tournament live, alongside extensive coverage of the IRL Women’s and Wheelchair tournaments.
“England’s opening match against Tonga promises to be a fascinating contest, and our full studio presentation around every England fixture will give supporters expert insight, analysis and reaction throughout the tournament.
“Premier Sports has a proud history with rugby league, from the 2013 and 2017 World Cups to our more recent coverage of the Rugby League Championship. We are excited to bring that experience and commitment to this tournament and to showcase the very best of the international game.”
Premier Sports has carved out a niche for rugby coverage across both codes in recent years – even launching a dedicated rugby channel – and also has rights to the Six Nations, the Champions Cup, the Challenge Cup, the United Rugby Championship, Top 14, Japan League One, Major League Rugby and Rugby Bundesliga.
