The Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 kicks off this week with a revamped format and ten teams vying for glory. Australia, New Zealand, and England lead the charge, but with only four semi-final spots available, the competition promises to be fierce. Can Australia claim a record-extending 13th title? Or will England finally break through under new head coach Brian McDermott? Here’s our comprehensive group-by-group preview.
Tournament Format Explained
The 2026 Men’s Rugby League World Cup introduces a unique structure. Ten teams are divided into three groups: Group A (four teams) and Groups B and C (three teams each). Two semi-finalists will emerge from Group A, while the remaining six nations in Groups B and C play in an inter-group format. The top two from a combined table of both pools advance to the semi-finals. This eliminates the quarter-final stage, making every match crucial.
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Group A: The Heavyweights
Group A features four powerhouse nations: Australia, New Zealand, England, and Samoa. With two semi-final spots up for grabs, expect intense battles.
Australia
Coach: Kevin Walters | Captain: Isaah Yeo | Previous Best: Winners (12 times)
The Kangaroos are overwhelming favourites on home soil, but they’re not without vulnerabilities. The absence of the world’s best player, Nathan Cleary (injury), leaves a gap. Last year’s Ashes exposed some cracks, though England failed to capitalise. Australia should reach the final, but their opening clash against New Zealand on Thursday could be a stumbling block.
New Zealand
Coach: Michael Maguire | Captain: James Fisher-Harris | Previous Best: Winners (2008)
The Kiwis have the talent to upset anyone. With a formidable forward pack and dynamic backs, they’ll fancy their chances against Australia. A win in the opener would send shockwaves through the tournament.
England
Coach: Brian McDermott | Captain: George Williams | Previous Best: Winners (1972)
Under new head coach Brian McDermott, England believe this is their time. They’ve come close in recent years but fallen short. A tough group means they must be at their best from the start.
Samoa
Coach: Matt Parish | Captain: Junior Paulo | Previous Best: Quarter-finals (2017)
Samoa stunned the rugby league world by reaching the 2021 semi-finals. They’ll look to build on that momentum and challenge the top three.
Groups B & C: The Challengers
Groups B and C consist of six nations: Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, France, Lebanon, and Cook Islands. They’ll play in an inter-group format, with the top two from the combined table reaching the semi-finals.
Fiji
Coach: Wise Kativerata | Captain: Kevin Naiqama | Previous Best: Semi-finals (2013, 2017)
Fiji are the strongest of the challengers, with a squad full of NRL and Super League talent. They’ll be targeting a semi-final berth.
Papua New Guinea
Coach: Justin Holbrook | Captain: David Mead | Previous Best: Quarter-finals (2000)
The Kumuls have home advantage and passionate fans. They could spring a surprise.
Tonga
Coach: Kristian Woolf | Captain: Jason Taumalolo | Previous Best: Semi-finals (2017)
Tonga are a dangerous side with powerful forwards. They’ll be aiming for a deep run.
France
Coach: Laurent Frayssinous | Captain: Benjamin Garcia | Previous Best: Quarter-finals (1954, 1968, 2000)
France have shown improvement but lack consistency at the highest level.
Lebanon
Coach: Michael Cheika | Captain: Mitchell Moses | Previous Best: Quarter-finals (2017)
Lebanon impressed in 2017 and will look to replicate that form.
Cook Islands
Coach: Tony Iro | Captain: Esan Marsters | Previous Best: Group stage (2000, 2013, 2017)
The Cook Islands are the underdogs but will relish the opportunity.
Key Takeaways
- Australia are favourites but missing key players.
- New Zealand and England pose the biggest threat to Australia.
- Fiji and Tonga lead the challengers from Groups B and C.
- The new format means every match is crucial.
- Home advantage could boost Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Comparison of Top Contenders
| Team | Coach | Captain | Previous Best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | Kevin Walters | Isaah Yeo | Winners (12 times) |
| New Zealand | Michael Maguire | James Fisher-Harris | Winners (2008) |
| England | Brian McDermott | George Williams | Winners (1972) |
| Samoa | Matt Parish | Junior Paulo | Quarter-finals (2017) |
FAQ
When does the Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 start?
The tournament kicks off this week, with the opening match between Australia and New Zealand on Thursday.
How many teams are in the Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026?
Ten teams are competing in the men’s event.
What is the format of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup?
The format includes three groups: Group A (four teams) and Groups B and C (three teams each). Two semi-finalists come from Group A, while the top two from a combined table of Groups B and C advance.
Who are the favourites to win?
Australia are the overwhelming favourites, but New Zealand and England are strong contenders.
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