Home » SPORTS TOURISM » Queensland to Host 2026 Rugby League World Cup Grand Finals at Suncorp Stadium Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth Across the State
Published on
November 23, 2025
As the 2026 Rugby League World Cup draws closer, Queensland is set to showcase its world-class sports tourism capabilities. Brisbane, the heart of the state, will host the Men’s and Women’s Grand Finals at the iconic Suncorp Stadium, making the event a central highlight of Queensland’s sports tourism landscape. With matches also taking place across Gold Coast and Townsville, the 2026 Rugby League World Cup promises to be a significant sporting event that will attract a global audience and generate substantial economic impact for the region.
Massive Economic Boost for Queensland’s Tourism Industry
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup is expected to be a game-changer for Queensland’s tourism sector. With approximately 110,000 interstate and international visitors expected to attend, the event is projected to inject over $18 million into the state’s economy. As part of Queensland’s strategic push to become Australia’s premier events capital, this tournament will bring significant benefits to the local tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors. Through this high-profile event, Queensland is poised to strengthen its position as a major player in the global sports tourism market.
Three Queensland Cities Set to Host Major Matches
The Rugby League World Cup will not be confined to just one city; instead, it will span three of Queensland’s most vibrant locations: Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Townsville. Brisbane will be the focal point, with the Men’s and Women’s Grand Finals taking place at Suncorp Stadium. However, Gold Coast and Townsville will also host pivotal matches that will ensure the entire state benefits from the global spotlight. A thrilling match between Australia’s men’s rugby league team and Fiji will be held at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, while Gold Coast’s CBUS Super Stadium will feature a triple-header, including Samoa vs. France (women’s), New Zealand vs. Fiji (men’s), and New Zealand vs. Papua New Guinea (women’s).
A Major Win for Queensland’s Sports and Tourism Strategy
Securing the 2026 Rugby League World Cup aligns perfectly with Queensland’s bold sports and tourism strategy. Under the state’s 20-year tourism plan, Destination 2045, the event represents a pivotal moment in Queensland’s rise as a global sports tourism hub. The collaboration between Tourism and Events Queensland, Experience Gold Coast, and Townsville Enterprise Limited played a crucial role in bringing this world-class tournament to Queensland.
Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the importance of the event, noting that it will provide a powerful platform to showcase Queensland to an international audience. This major event will reaffirm the state’s ability to host large-scale sports spectacles and highlight its tourism offerings to a worldwide audience, further positioning Queensland as a premier destination for sporting events.
Creating a Unique Sports Tourism Experience for Fans
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup is expected to create an extraordinary sports tourism experience for fans traveling from around the globe. Queensland’s deep passion for rugby league is well known, and this event will bring together fans from across the globe, creating an unmatched atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie.
Beyond the matches, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Queensland’s stunning beaches, world-class attractions, and vibrant dining and entertainment options. The event will serve as a springboard for visitors to discover the diverse tourism offerings of the state, from the bustling streets of Brisbane to the pristine shores of the Gold Coast and the laid-back charm of Townsville.
Boosting Local Communities and Sports Culture
The economic and cultural impact of the Rugby League World Cup will extend far beyond the stadiums. Local communities across Queensland will experience a significant boost from the influx of visitors, with businesses benefitting from increased demand for accommodation, dining, and retail services. The event will also inspire more Queenslanders to engage in sport and physical activity, particularly as the region builds momentum towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander highlighted how the Rugby League World Cup will help solidify Queensland’s place as the home of Australian sport. Suncorp Stadium, widely regarded as one of the best rugby league venues in the world, will provide a fitting backdrop for the Grand Finals, while Townsville and Gold Coast will benefit from the prestige of hosting international teams.
The Role of Tourism and Events Queensland in Securing the World Cup
Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), led by CEO Craig Davidson, played a vital role in securing the 2026 Rugby League World Cup for the state. As a major driver of tourism, TEQ understands the far-reaching impact of hosting such a significant international event. By bringing the Rugby League World Cup to Queensland, TEQ is not only showcasing the state as a world-class sports tourism destination but is also helping to boost Queensland’s profile as a place to visit for both sporting events and leisure.
The World Cup will have a lasting effect on Queensland’s tourism, with visitors flocking to the state not just for the matches, but also to explore the beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and recreational activities the state has to offer. The international attention generated by this event will contribute to Queensland’s growth as a premier destination for global tourism.
Gold Coast and Townsville: Key Partners in Queensland’s Sports Tourism Success
Gold Coast and Townsville are key players in ensuring the success of Queensland’s sports tourism strategy. Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate expressed his excitement about the city’s involvement, recognizing that the Rugby League World Cup will significantly boost the local economy and further cement the Gold Coast’s reputation as a premier sporting destination. Rugby league is ingrained in the Gold Coast’s sporting culture, and hosting such an important event will further deepen the connection between the city and the sport.
Likewise, Townsville is thrilled to be part of the tournament, with Queensland Country Bank Stadium set to host some of the most exciting matches. The city’s involvement will not only elevate the region’s global profile but also bring more international visitors to the area, creating lasting economic and cultural benefits.
A Legacy of Sports Tourism for Queensland
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup is expected to leave a lasting legacy for Queensland’s sports tourism industry. The event will not only showcase the state’s ability to host major international tournaments but will also inspire future generations to engage in sport. The benefits of this event will reverberate far beyond the final whistle, as it helps set the stage for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
By securing the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, Queensland is making a bold statement on the global stage—one that positions the state as the ultimate destination for major sporting events. The state’s successful bid will continue to drive tourism, inspire local communities, and enhance Queensland’s reputation as a sports tourism powerhouse.
