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The first Rugby League World Cup was held in France in 1954. It has been held intermittently since then, in a variety of formats.
Initially, the four test nations (Australia, Great Britain, France and New Zealand ) played each other in a league format. On some occasions the winner was the team that finished top of this league, whilst on other occasions the top two teams played off in a World Cup Final.
In 1975 the format was altered, with Great Britain being split into England and Wales. The tournament was not held in any one place; rather a series of matches around the world was used to determine the standings. No final was held that year.
The competition returned to the old format in 1977, but the world-wide league format was re-instigated in 1985. This time the matches were spread over three years, being specially designated test matches within the standard test series. This format was used twice, with World Cup Final being held in 1988 and 1992.
In 1995 the competition was held in Great Britain and expanded to ten teams. This format proved successful, and the World Cup was expanded again to sixteen teams for the 2000 competition. This proved a step too far and the 2000 World Cup lost money.
The next World Cup is due to be held in Australia in 2008. A similar format to that used in 1995 is expected, with between 8 and 12 teams likely to feature.
The original concept of a tournament involving only the top sides in the game has been carried forward to the Tri-Nations competition.
Footnote
- Denotes that cup was won without a cup final, with league placing only being used.
Rugby League World Cups
1954 - 1957 - 1960 - 1968 - 1970 - 1972 - 1975 - 1977 - 1985 to 1988 - 1989 to 1992 - 1995 - 2000 - 2008
See Also
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