The Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 kicks off this week with a revamped format that features 10 teams competing for just four semi-final spots after the elimination of the quarter-final round. The tournament introduces a complex structure, with two teams advancing from a four-team Group A, while six other nations participate in an inter-group stage involving three-team Groups B and C. The top two teams from the combined standings of Groups B and C will also progress to the semi-finals.
In Group A, Australia enters the tournament as the overwhelming favorite to claim a record-extending 13th title. Coached by Kevin Walters and captained by Isaah Yeo, the Kangaroos will benefit from home advantage but face notable challenges. Their squad lacks Nathan Cleary, the world’s top player, who is sidelined due to injury. Australia’s form showed some vulnerability during last year’s Ashes series, though their opponents were unable to capitalize. The Kangaroos will open their campaign against New Zealand on Thursday, a match that could prove pivotal in determining the group’s hierarchy.
New Zealand, coached by Stacey Jones and led on the field by James Fisher-Harris, are the defending champions following their 2008 victory and pose a significant threat in Group A. The Kiwis boast what many consider the tournament’s strongest forward pack, complemented by dynamic backs such as Kalyn Ponga and Jahrome Hughes. Their opening clash against Australia presents a tough challenge, but New Zealand’s potential to develop into title contenders is considerable.
Rounding out Group A, the Cook Islands, coached by Karmichael Hunt with dual captains KL Iro and Marata Niukore, are aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their World Cup history. Although their chances appear slim amid such strong competition, the team offers exciting aspects and key players like KL Iro and Valentine Holmes to watch.
Group B’s lineup includes England, coached by Brian McDermott and captained by George Williams. England, runners-up in multiple past World Cups, face high stakes from their opening match, with a loss to Tonga posing a serious threat to their semi-final ambitions. Following that fixture, England will encounter Papua New Guinea and France, matches regarded as more favorable to secure advancement. McDermott has pledged a fresh, expansive style of play distinct from his predecessors, although expectations for an outright title challenge remain cautious.
Lebanon, overseen by Michael Cheika with Jacob Kiraz as captain, return for their second participation under Cheika’s leadership after reaching the quarter-finals in 2017. While their squad includes notable talent such as Kiraz of the Canterbury Bulldogs, Lebanon will need to perform at their highest level to progress through the challenging group phase.
As the tournament commences, questions linger over whether Australia can maintain its historical dominance, whether New Zealand can defend its crown, or if England can make a breakthrough under new guidance. The new format promises intense competition, with each match carrying substantial significance under the reduced path to the semis.