Cities and regions across the United States and Vancouver have shared their reaction to being officially named as entering the Applicant Phase in the Men's Rugby World Cup USA 2031 host selection process.
Denver
“Denver is thrilled to be among the cities formally entering the Applicant Phase of the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 Host Selection Process,” said Matthew Payne, executive director of the Denver Sports Commission. “Our city’s rugby community continues to grow at every level, from youth programs to elite competition, and Denver has proven itself as a passionate and welcoming host for the sport. We look forward to partnering with World Rugby and our local community to share Denver’s desire to be part of one of the most exciting and fastest, emerging sports in the world.”
San Diego
Sports San Diego Chief Executive Officer, Mark Neville, said: “Being named among the cities under consideration for the 2031 Rugby World Cup is a tremendous honor and another example of how our community comes together to attract world-class events. Rugby continues to grow in the United States and in San Diego, from youth programs to international matches. Being identified as a potential host city for the 2031 Rugby World Cup reflects the momentum our region has built around the sport and the world-class experience we can deliver.”
Orlando
“On behalf of our Chairman, Caesar Lopez, and the 138 members of our Board of Directors, we are thrilled that Orlando has been named a candidate host city for the 2031 and 2033 Rugby World Cups,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “As the world’s premier vacation destination, hosting major international sporting events is in our DNA. Our region’s unmatched hospitality, first-class venues, and spirit of collaboration ensure that Orlando will deliver an unforgettable experience for the global rugby community
Pittsburgh
Jim Britt, Vice President of Sports Events for VisitPITTSBURGH:“This marks a significant milestone for the city of Pittsburgh. As rugby's popularity continues to rise across the U.S., we're thrilled at the prospect of hosting the Rugby World Cup. Pittsburgh is ready to embrace the rugby community's spirit, and with strong local support and a proven track record of hosting world-class events, we're confident that our city has the potential to offer an unforgettable experience for fans across the globe."
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval: "Welcoming the Rugby World Cup to Cincinnati would not only be a win for our sports landscape, but a win for our entire region—drawing visitors, uniting residents, and spotlighting the very best of Cincy on the international stage"
Ben Huffman, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission: "We are proud that Cincinnati is in the running to be a host city for the 2031 Rugby World Cup. We are excited to showcase Cincinnati's energy, hospitality, and love for competition at the international level, while growing this amazing sport in our region. "
Bob Deck, President Midwest Rugby Foundation: “Cincinnati has a proud rugby tradition and a deep love of sport. It’s the perfect city to showcase that spirit and take its place on the global stage as a Rugby World Cup host.”
Jeff Berding, CEO- FC Cincinnati: "We are proud to offer TQL Stadium as a venue for hosting the Rugby World Cup in Cincinnati. Our award-winning stadium offers rugby fans a best-in-class viewing experience that will be greatly enjoyed by local and visiting fans alike"
Gary Lindgren- Chair-Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission and President, Cincinnati Business Committee: “The Rugby World Cup would deliver a major economic boost for Cincinnati — driving tourism, creating jobs, and putting our city on the global stage as a premier destination for major events.”
David Lind, a lifelong rugby advocate who helped connect Cincinnati with World Rugby and is helping shape the city’s long-term vision for the sport, reflected on the journey: “When Kevin Roberts and rugby leaders Bob Latham and Bob Reeves joined us at TQL Stadium earlier this year, they saw what makes Cincinnati unique: passion, purpose, and the belief that nothing is impossible. My inspiration comes from a lifetime in the game and the desire to leave something lasting. Our goal isn’t just to host matches; it’s to build a coaching and development legacy that will nurture youth, empower coaches, and strengthen rugby across our community for decades to come.”
Houston
“Houston is excited to participate in the Rugby World Cup 2031 host city selection process,” said Harris County–Houston Sports Authority CEO Ryan Walsh. “With world-class venues, a diverse and passionate community, and deep experience hosting global sporting events, our region is well-prepared to welcome the world. We look forward to working with USA Rugby and World Rugby throughout the bidding process to bring the Rugby World Cup to Houston and shape a defining moment for the sport’s growth in the United States.”
Birmingham
“Serving as one of the host cities for the 2031 Rugby World Cup would be an honor and an incredible opportunity to showcase Birmingham's top-tier venues, signature hospitality, and vibrant culture to the world,” said Dan Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. "The Greater Birmingham CVB, alongside our partners at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, City of Birmingham, and Jefferson County, stand at the ready for this opportunity to provide an exceptional experience for visitors from across the rugby world in 2031.”
Baltimore
"Together, Baltimore’s sports, tourism, and civic leaders are ready to showcase our city and M&T Bank Stadium on the world stage. The Rugby World Cup 2031 is an opportunity to highlight Baltimore’s passion, hospitality, and global reach — and to welcome the world to a city that celebrates sport at every level."— Joint statement from the Baltimore Ravens, Maryland Sports Commission, and Visit Baltimore
Washington
“Our goal is to bring the biggest and best events to the new Commanders stadium in DC, including the 2031 Rugby World Cup,” said Gabe Harris, Senior Vice President of Entertainment & Strategic Initiatives, Washington Commanders. “This is a unique opportunity to bring an exciting, intense global sporting competition to the nation’s capital – exactly the type of event that will allow us to showcase DC to the world. As we work to deliver our new stadium by 2030, we would be honored to host this iconic event.”
