Seattle recently had the honor of hosting representatives from World Rugby, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing growth of the sport in the United States. With a deep-rooted passion for rugby and a commitment to elevating the game on a national and global scale, Seattle’s rugby community came together to showcase the city's capabilities as a future hub for international rugby events.

As part of their tour, World Rugby officials visited Lumen Field, a world-class stadium that has hosted major sporting events and is a testament to Seattle’s ability to accommodate premier global competitions. With the strong backing of the Seattle Sports Commission, discussions focused on positioning Seattle as a key venue for rugby’s expansion in North America.

The visit emphasized the city’s ability to deliver a high-caliber experience for athletes and fans alike, leveraging a strong local sports culture and top-tier facilities.

The U.S. has been identified as a major growth market for rugby, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup (Men’s) in Australia and the 2031 & 2033 Rugby World Cups in the U.S. serving as significant milestones on the horizon. Seattle, with its dedicated Major League Rugby (MLR) franchise—the Seattle Seawolves—has consistently led the charge in fostering the sport’s development at both the professional and grassroots levels.

This visit reinforced that momentum, showcasing the region’s deep commitment to rugby and its readiness to contribute to the sport’s bright future in America.

Seattle is ready. With premier facilities, an engaged sports commission, and a thriving rugby community, the city has all the elements necessary to be a top contender for hosting major rugby events.
U.S. rugby is on the rise. The growth of the game stateside is undeniable, and Seattle is playing a critical role in shaping its trajectory.
The future is bright. With discussions well underway and momentum continuing to build, Seattle is positioning itself as a key player in the journey toward the Rugby World Cup and beyond.

Seattle and its partners will continue to engage with World Rugby and key stakeholders to build on the momentum from this visit. The focus remains on growing the game locally, nationally, and internationally, ensuring that the city remains at the forefront of rugby’s expansion in North America.