Japan Launches Bid to Host 2035 Rugby World Cup

The Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) has officially launched its bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, aiming to build on the success of the 2019 tournament held in the country.

Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo on Wednesday, JRFU President Masato Tsuchida said Japan hopes to deliver a tournament that benefits both domestic and international audiences.

“We want to create the best World Cup not only for the rugby world, but for Japan and the rest of the world,” Tsuchida stated.

Bid Timeline and Alternatives

The JRFU submitted an expression of interest to World Rugby last Friday, formally entering the bidding process. Tsuchida also indicated that Japan may consider a fallback bid for the 2039 Rugby World Cup if the 2035 bid is unsuccessful.

Japan’s intention to pursue hosting rights was previously confirmed by Tsuchida in an interview with Kyodo News in September last year while he was in London.

World Rugby is expected to select a preferred host candidate in May 2027, with the final decision scheduled to be announced in November 2027.

International Competition

The next Rugby World Cup will be held in Australia in 2027, followed by the United States in 2031. Japan’s bid for 2035 faces competition from other potential hosts, including Spain, as well as a possible joint bid from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Japan earned widespread praise for hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup, which was the first edition held in Asia. The tournament was widely regarded as a success in terms of organization, fan engagement, and global reach.

Outlook

With experience from the 2019 event and strong domestic support, Japan is positioning itself as a capable host for another Rugby World Cup. The coming years will determine whether the country can secure the hosting rights amid growing international competition.