[1][2] On 24 July 2024, the IRL announced that Australia would host the 2026 tournament, with a number of games played in Papua New Guinea.

[1] The announcement also stated a 2024 Samoa tour of England would be likely (as this was already being discussed by the two nations).

[13][14] The calendar also announced that the Women's Rugby League World Cup would be a stand alone event starting in 2028.

In addition, there would be a renewed focus on regional tournaments to aid in developing lesser rugby league nations.

[1] A later announcement confirmed the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup would also be a stand alone event starting in 2029.