The Men's Rugby League World Cup 2026 is poised to kick off this week, bringing with it a fresh format for the tournament. Ten nations will compete for glory, with only four semi-final berths available after the quarter-final stage has been removed.
The competition's structure sees the four teams in Group A battling for two semi-final spots. The remaining six nations, divided into three-team Groups B and C, will play in an inter-group format. The top two teams from a combined table of Groups B and C will secure the other two semi-final places.
Australia enters the tournament as favourites, despite the absence of Nathan Cleary due to injury. New Zealand, who face Australia in their opening game, are also considered strong contenders, with a powerful forward pack. England, under new head coach Brian McDermott, face immediate pressure in their group stage, with a crucial match against Tonga on Saturday.