Vancouver is positioning itself to become part of rugby history as city officials formally express interest in joining the 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup hosting circuit. The massive international sporting event, primarily based in the United States, could see matches played on Canadian soil for the first time in Western Canada.
Tourism Vancouver has confirmed they've submitted an official expression of interest to World Rugby, signaling the city's readiness to welcome the global rugby community. This move comes as the United States prepares to host the premier tournament, with multiple North American cities expected to participate in the landmark event.
A Strategic Play for International Sports Tourism
The 2031 Rugby World Cup represents a golden opportunity for Vancouver to showcase its world-class sports infrastructure and hospitality capabilities. With existing venues like BC Place Stadium capable of hosting major international competitions, the city offers proven facilities that have successfully accommodated events of similar scale.
"This isn't just about rugby—it's about positioning Vancouver as a premier destination for global sporting events," noted a tourism official familiar with the bid process. The economic impact of hosting World Cup matches could generate significant tourism revenue and international exposure for the city.
Building on Canada's Rugby Legacy
While this would mark Vancouver's first time hosting Rugby World Cup matches, Canada has previous experience with the tournament. Eastern Canadian cities hosted matches during the 1991 Rugby World Cup, but this would represent Western Canada's debut involvement in the world's third-largest sporting event.
The 2031 tournament is particularly significant as it will be the first Rugby World Cup held in North America since the event's inception in 1987. Vancouver's participation would strengthen cross-border sporting collaboration and demonstrate Canada's commitment to growing rugby across the continent.
City officials and tourism representatives are now awaiting further details from World Rugby about the host city selection process and requirements, with formal bids expected to develop throughout 2024.
