Pittsburgh Bids to Host 2031 Rugby World Cup

Pittsburgh is stepping onto the world sports stage with its bid to host one of the planet's biggest athletic competitions.

SportsPittsburgh is working to bring the 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup and 2033 Women's Rugby World Cup to Western Pennsylvania. The city is one of 27 finalists competing for about six host spots across the United States.

The men's tournament features 24 teams playing 52 matches, while the women's event includes 16 teams and 32 matches. These competitions regularly draw viewership numbers that rival the Olympics and FIFA World Cup.

"We'd be talking about a very high level of economic impact," said SportsPittsburgh Vice President Jim Britt. He envisions full hotels, sold-out games at Acrisure Stadium, and potentially multiple weekends of international excitement.

The sport has passionate followings in countries like England, Ireland, France, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. Many fans from these nations live in the U.S. and would travel to Pittsburgh for the rare chance to see their national teams compete on American soil.

Pittsburgh's bid leverages existing venues rather than building new ones. Acrisure Stadium, with its grass field and 68,000-seat capacity, is ideal for rugby. Highmark Stadium is also in the running, especially with plans to nearly triple its capacity to 15,000 by 2028.

Pennsylvania recently awarded SportsPittsburgh $120,000 to identify and upgrade potential "base camps" where teams could practice and stay. These facilities would transform from community sports fields into world-class training centers.

The Ripple Effect

Western Pennsylvania has a thriving rugby community that many don't know exists. Local clubs like the Pittsburgh Harlequins, founded in 1973, and university teams at Pitt and Robert Morris have built a passionate grassroots following.

The Harlequins operate the region's only rugby-focused facility in Cheswick, making them a strong candidate to host a World Cup team's training camp. The club is preparing to request state funding for upgrades including security fencing, new walkways, bleachers, and lighting.

"When you begin talking with folks about rugby, you'll be surprised how many say, 'Oh yeah, I played in college,'" Britt said. This underground sports culture is ready for its moment in the spotlight.

The World Cup bid represents more than just economic benefits. It's a chance to celebrate Pittsburgh's diversity, connect immigrant communities with their home countries' teams, and inspire a new generation of local rugby players.

Bringing the Rugby World Cup to Pittsburgh would prove once again that the Steel City belongs on the world stage.