Cook Islands Claim Last World Cup Berth

The Cook Islands have clinched the final qualification spot for the IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026 by defeating South Africa 58-6 in a qualifying match held at CommBank Stadium on Sunday.

With this victory, the Aitu join other teams such as Australia, England, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, and Wales, making a total of 10 men's teams that will compete in the World Cup at the end of the upcoming season.

In addition, the women's teams for RLWC26 have recently been confirmed, with Fiji earning a place by winning the IRL World Series 2025 in Canada. They will compete alongside Australia, England, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Wales.

The eight wheelchair teams include Australia, England, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, the USA, and Wales.

The Cook Islands become the 14th nation to qualify for RLWC26 after demonstrating a strong performance in the second half of the match.

At halftime, the Aitu were ahead 20-6, following a spirited first half from South Africa which saw them score a remarkable try by fullback Luke Pereira De Vlieg, alongside two other tries that were disallowed.

South Africa's Rhinos faced further challenges when their lock Aden Perry was sent to the sin bin due to a shoulder charge late in the first half. This situation allowed the Aitu to capitalize, with Esan Marsters and Marata Niukore scoring while the Rhinos were reduced to 12 players.