Major Nation at Risk of Exclusion from 2026 Rugby League World Cup

The 2026 Rugby League World Cup is set to commence on October 15, featuring a highly anticipated match between Australia and New Zealand at Allianz Stadium.

Yet, a significant qualified nation may find itself sidelined in October, as determined by the International Rugby League (IRL).

Fiji Bati faces the possibility of missing out on the tournament due to the Fiji National Rugby League's (FNRL) failure to submit its Annual Membership Audit, alongside similar failures in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

This situation poses a serious risk to the country's membership status.

Consequently, the FNRL is expected to be recommended for reclassification to affiliate membership by the IRL board.

But what does this entail?

IRL Head of Membership and Competition David Butler explained that reclassification to affiliate membership would mean the Fiji Bati would lose their IRL voting rights and their eligibility to participate in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

Regarding their alternatives, the FNRL can either accept this reclassification or choose to appeal against the decision.

When approached by the Fiji Sun, FNRL Chairman Apenisa Dansey chose not to comment on the matter.