Rugby's South American Dream: Why Argentina's 2035 World Cup Bid Matters
When I first heard about Argentina’s bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. On the surface, it’s a bold move—a country not traditionally seen as a rugby powerhouse stepping up to host the sport’s biggest event. But if you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about Argentina. It’s about South America’s growing ambition to stake its claim on the global rugby stage.
The Bigger Picture: A Regional, Not Just National, Ambition
What makes this particularly fascinating is Argentina’s proposal to involve Uruguay, Chile, and Brazil in a joint South American bid. Personally, I think this is where the real story lies. Rugby in South America has long been overshadowed by football, but the region’s recent progress is undeniable. Three South American teams—Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile—participated in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, a record for the continent. This isn’t just about hosting a tournament; it’s about accelerating the sport’s growth in a region that’s historically been on the periphery of rugby’s global narrative.
One thing that immediately stands out is the strategic thinking behind this bid. By framing it as a regional effort, Argentina is not only strengthening its own case but also positioning South America as a unified force in rugby. This raises a deeper question: Could this be the catalyst for rugby to become a mainstream sport in a continent dominated by football?
The Challenges: Beyond Passion and Potential
While the passion for rugby in South America is undeniable, the logistical and infrastructural challenges cannot be overlooked. Hosting a World Cup requires more than just enthusiasm—it demands world-class stadiums, transportation networks, and accommodation. What many people don’t realize is that this bid is as much about proving South America’s readiness as it is about celebrating its rugby culture.
From my perspective, the involvement of World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin in discussions with the Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) is a critical litmus test. His assessment will likely determine whether this bid is seen as a pipe dream or a viable reality. If you ask me, the fact that Gilpin is even engaging in these talks suggests that World Rugby is taking South America’s ambitions seriously—a significant shift from past perceptions.
A Legacy Beyond Borders
UAR President Gabriel Travaglini described the bid as a “legacy project that transcends our borders,” and I couldn’t agree more. This isn’t just about hosting a tournament for six weeks; it’s about leaving a lasting impact on rugby’s development in the region. What this really suggests is that Argentina sees itself as a leader in South American rugby, willing to invest in the sport’s future even if the payoff isn’t immediate.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the inclusion of Brazil in this proposal. Brazil is a sleeping giant in rugby, with a massive population and a growing interest in the sport. If this bid succeeds, it could be the spark that ignites rugby’s popularity in a country that could one day become a major player in the sport.
Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake?
The 2035 Rugby World Cup is still over a decade away, but the groundwork being laid now is crucial. In my opinion, this bid is about more than just hosting rights—it’s about reshaping the global rugby landscape. If South America can pull this off, it would send a powerful message: rugby is no longer the exclusive domain of traditional powerhouses like New Zealand, England, or South Africa.
What this really suggests is that the sport is entering a new era of inclusivity and expansion. And while there are no guarantees, one thing is clear: Argentina’s bid is a bold statement of intent, a declaration that South America is ready to take center stage.
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s watched rugby evolve over the years, I’m genuinely excited about the possibility of a South American World Cup. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about the cultural exchange, the economic opportunities, and the inspiration it could provide to a new generation of players. Personally, I think this bid is a long shot, but even if it doesn’t succeed, the very act of pursuing it is a win for rugby in South America.
If you take a step back and think about it, this is what sport is all about—dreaming big, pushing boundaries, and believing in the power of possibility. Whether or not Argentina hosts the 2035 Rugby World Cup, one thing is certain: South America’s rugby story is only just beginning.
