The Rugby League World Cup is an international rugby league tournament, played between national teams of the Rugby League International Federation. The first-ever Rugby League World Cup was held in 1954 in France. The event is currently played every four years.

The World Cup played in 2022 was the 16th event, won by Australia, their 12th title. The next Rugby League World Cup is planned for 2026.

Winners List

Event Year Winner Runner-Up Score
17 2026 - - -
16 2022 Australia Samoa 30-10
15 2017 Australia England 6–0
14 2013 Australia New Zealand 34–2
13 2008 New Zealand Australia 34–20
12 2000 Australia New Zealand 40–12
11 1995 Australia England 16–8
10 1989–92 Australia Great Britain 10–6
9 1985–88 Australia New Zealand 25–12
8 1977 Australia Great Britain 13–12
7 1975 Australia England 25–0
6 1972 Great Britain Australia 10–10 (a.e.t.)
5 1970 Australia Great Britain 12–7
4 1968 Australia France 20–2
3 1960 Great Britain Australia Round-robin
2 1957 Australia Great Britain Round-robin
1 1954 Great Britain France 16–12

France withdrew from hosting the 2025 Rugby League World Cup for financial reasons. The International Rugby League has announced Australia as the new host of the most competitive IRL Rugby League World Cup in 2026. This competition will feature the Men's, Women's, and Wheelchair tournaments.