LEADING figures in Warrington’s business, culture and sporting community have teamed up to start work on a bid for the town to be a host for the Rugby League World Cup 2021.
The 16th staging of the World Cup will be held across England, with a task group in Warrington established to give the town the best chance of hosting it again.
Warrington has already expressed an interest in hosting men’s, women’s and wheelchair rugby as part of the tournament, and previously hosted the Samoan national team in 2013.
Paul Taylor, Managing Director of Taylor Business Park and task group chair, said: “Our initial meetings have made clear that group members bring the ideal blend of enthusiasm and expertise for the bid.
Paul Taylor
“The Rugby League World Cup isn’t just for rugby fans – it’s also about the legacy these tournaments bring and is a great platform to bring Warrington’s communities together.
“Being a host for the tournament would be a huge boost for the town and the timing is perfect as the Time Square Regeneration Scheme will be completed by then as well.”
Karl Fitzpatrick, CEO of Warrington Wolves, said: “I’m sure many Warringtonians will remember the enthusiasm and infectious energy the Samoan national team brought when we hosted them in 2013.
“Not to mention the memorable games that took place at the Halliwell Jones – perhaps most notably the epic clash between New Zealand and Samoa.
“We look forward to bidding again to create more sporting memories for Warrington in 2021.”
The members of Warrington’s Rugby League World Cup task group are:
Paul Taylor – Managing Director, Taylor Business Park and chair of the task group
Karl Fitzpatrick – CEO, Warrington Wolves
Professor Steven Broomhead – Vice Chairman Warrington Wolves and Chief Executive at Warrington Borough Council
Rachel McQueen – Tourism Director, Marketing Cheshire
Dave Thompson – CEO, Warrington Disability Partnership
Steve Park – Managing Director, Warrington & Co.
Neil Kelly – Foundation Director, Warrington Wolves Foundation
Emma Hutchinson – Managing Director, LiveWire and Culture Warrington
