South American Bid for 2035 Rugby World Cup Gains Momentum
Chilean rugby is experiencing a period of significant growth, highlighted by The Condors’ qualification for their second consecutive Rugby World Cup. This success is fueling ambitions for a larger role on the global stage, with South America emerging as a potential host for the 2035 Rugby World Cup.
Joint Bid Under Consideration
According to reports from Uruguayan media outlet El Observador, World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin will visit Buenos Aires, Argentina, to discuss a joint bid from South American nations. The proposed candidacy would notice Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay co-host the tournament El Observador.
Support from Rugby Legends
The initiative has garnered support from prominent figures in Argentine rugby. Agustín Pichot, a former player and administrator, expressed enthusiasm for the concept, stating, “We like to work on the concept. South America and World Rugby know it. There will be visits from World Rugby. We are going to produce clear what we want so that either in 2035 or 2039 there will be a World Cup in South America.” El Observador.
Competition for Hosting Rights
The selection process for the 2035 Rugby World Cup is already underway. Should South America formally submit a bid, it will face competition from Italy, Spain, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. The process includes the following stages:
- Expressions of Interest: October 2025
- Detailed Proposal Submission: Third quarter 2026
- Technical Evaluations: End of 2026 and beginning of 2027
- Headquarters Definition: May 2027
- Official Designation by World Rugby: November 2027
This timeline indicates a multi-year evaluation process before a final decision is made.