Warrington launches bid to bring RL World Cup back to borough

WARRINGTON’S bid to bring the Rugby League World Cup back to the borough in 2021 will be launched at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Thursday.
Towns and cities across the country have been invited to stake their claim for a slice of the action.
With men’s, women’s and wheelchair events, the 16th Rugby League World Cup will be one of the most inclusive and diverse events ever held in England. Leading figures from Warrington’s business, culture, sporting and voluntary sectors have put together a compelling bid to host up to three men’s games and one of the competing nations’ squads, plus the final of the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.
Warrington’s bid partnership group believe the benefits to the borough would be significant.
Group chairman Paul Taylor, managing director of Taylor Business Park said:
“Colleagues from across the borough’s public, private and third sectors have developed what we believe to be a convincing case to bring the Rugby League World Cup back to Warrington.
“As well as the obvious economic benefits, hosting RLWC2021 will offer a lasting legacy in terms of bringing communities together, growing participation in rugby league and sport in general, and improving health and wellbeing.
“It’s also an opportunity to showcase Warrington to a national and international audience – and the timing is perfect as the Time Square regeneration scheme will be completed by the time the tournament kicks off.”
The 2013 tournament set new records for economic impact and media reach, and organisers predict records will be smashed again in 2021 with more live spectators, domestic tourists and longer overseas visitors.
Warrington Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick said: “We all remember 2013, the infectious enthusiasm of the Samoan squad we hosted in Warrington and their epic encounter with New Zealand here at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
“Now we’re looking forward to creating more sporting memories in 2021 and playing our part in delivering a tournament that celebrates the heritage of the sport, and increases the visibility, participation and interest in Rugby League on a global scale.”
The tournament will be held in October and November 2021. Warrington’s bid will be submitted at the end of this month and the successful hosts will be announced early next year.