Argentina are pushing hard to host the Rugby World Cup 2035, launching a joint South American bid alongside Brazil, Chile and Uruguay. World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin has travelled to Argentina to carry out a feasibility assessment — a significant moment for a nation that has long deserved a shot at hosting the game’s biggest tournament.
Argentina Rugby World Cup 2035 Bid: What We Know So Far
Gabriel Travaglini, president of Argentina’s rugby union, made no attempt to hide the scale of the ambition. “The 2035 bid represents a federal objective and a legacy project that transcends our borders,” he said. “Welcoming Alan Gilpin to advance this technical analysis is a fundamental step in demonstrating that the region is ready. We want a World Cup that reflects the passion and development that rugby has achieved in every corner of our territory.”
Furthermore, the timeline is already locked in. Formal hosting applications land this autumn, with World Rugby identifying a preferred host in May 2027. The governing body’s council then rubber-stamps the decision the following November. That means Argentina have roughly two years to make their case before the 13th Rugby World Cup — arriving after Australia 2027 and USA 2031 — finds its home.
The Pumas Are a Worthy Contender — But the Competition Is Fierce
Make no mistake, Argentina deserve serious consideration. The Pumas have reached the semi-finals three times and currently sit fifth in the global rankings, one place above England. This is a rugby nation with genuine pedigree, not just a novelty destination.
However, the battle for hosting rights will be anything but straightforward. Japan, Spain, Italy and a combined Middle East bid are all expected to throw their names into the ring. Each brings its own appeal, and World Rugby will have some serious deliberating to do. Still, a tournament stretching across South America — with Buenos Aires at its heart — would be unlike anything the rugby world has seen before. That alone makes this bid worth watching closely.