A statement from Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake on the news that Leeds has been chosen as a host city for the Rugby League World Cup 2021.

The Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake has commented on the news that Leeds has been chosen as a host city for the Rugby League World Cup 2021.

Leeds will host three men’s matches at Headingley Stadium and one match at Elland Road, which includes a semi-final. The city has also being awarded four games for the women’s Rugby League World Cup which will be played at Headingley.

The council led a consortium of partners on the design and submission of the successful bid, which further underlines the city’s credentials as a well-established and respected centre for world-class international sporting events.

Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake, said:

“We are absolutely thrilled and excited that Leeds has been named as a host city for the Rugby League World Cup 2021. 

“The game of rugby league is woven into the very fabric of our city, and we are looking forward to once again showcasing Leeds to sports fans from across the globe through the world cup matches, that will be played at our famous and iconic Headingley and Elland Road stadiums. To have the opportunity to also host one of the semi-finals is tremendous and something we are really looking forward to.

"As we enter what promises to be an extraordinary year of sporting events in Leeds, this announcement is another example of our city's growing world-class reputation for hosting world-class international events.”

Notes to editors:

For more information around the Rugby League World Cup 2021, please see:

Website: https://www.rlwc2021.com/

Twitter - @RLWC2021

Facebook – www.facebook.com/RLWC2021

Instagram @RLWC2021

In 2019, Leeds will host matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup, the UCI World Championships, the ITU World Triathlon Series, Tour de Yorkshire, an Ashes Test Match and 2019 IFAF Women’s European Championship. To find out more, please see: https://www.visitleeds.co.uk/things-to-do/Sport.aspx#