Argentina has officially launched a bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup-the first time the tournament could be held in South America. The Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) announced the initiative Tuesday, emphasizing regional collaboration.
The UAR will partner with Sudamerica Rugby and the national unions of Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay, with potential for shared hosting. World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin is in Argentina to assess the bid’s feasibility alongside UAR President Gabriel Travaglini.
"This is a federal ambition and legacy-driven project beyond our borders," Travaglini said. "We aim to deliver a World Cup that reflects the passion and progress of rugby across our nation."
The 2031 tournament heads to the United States-the Americas’ first-while Australia hosts in 2027. Spain, Japan, Italy, and a Gulf consortium (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar) are also in contention for 2035.
Argentina’s Pumas have reached the World Cup semifinals three times-in 2007, 2015, and 2023-making them the top-performing team in the Americas.