Athletes with Disabilities to Share Rugby World Cup Stage

Athletes with physical disabilities will share the global spotlight with rugby league's biggest stars when the second Physical Disability Rugby League World Cup kicks off in Sydney this October.

Australia, England, and New Zealand will compete in the tournament running alongside the Men's, Women's, and Wheelchair World Cups. Each team will face off at AIIMS Stadium in Cabramatta, the birthplace of Physical Disability Rugby League 16 years ago.

The final takes place November 8 at Allianz Stadium, right before the men's and women's semi-finals. It marks the second time the PDRL World Cup has been integrated into the main championship event after the inaugural 2022 tournament in England.

"Playing on the same global stage as the Men's, Women's, and Wheelchair tournaments means everything to our playing group because it gives them an opportunity to showcase their skills alongside the whole rugby league family," said Keith Povah, NSW PDRL Vice-Chair.

England enters as defending champions after defeating New Zealand 42-10 in the 2022 final at Warrington. The Kiwis will be hungry for redemption on Australian soil.

The Ripple Effect

This decision sends a powerful message about what sports can be. By placing athletes with disabilities center stage rather than tucking them into separate events, rugby league is showing that inclusion means true integration.

Young athletes with physical disabilities will watch these games and see themselves represented at the highest level. They'll see packed stadiums, television coverage, and recognition alongside traditional stars.

"The event will shine a spotlight on these fantastic athletes and spark the imagination of everyone to dream of what is possible for them," said Chris Godfrey, RFL National Inclusion Manager.

The tournament opens October 30 with Australia taking on England. England faces New Zealand on November 2, and the trans-Tasman rivals clash November 5 before the championship final three days later.

Rugby league is proving that when sports make room for everyone, everybody wins.