Key facts
- MPs are urging the UK government to make Rugby League World Cup matches free-to-air.
- The current broadcast rights for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup are held by Premier Sports.
- Previous Rugby League World Cup coverage on the BBC in 2022 attracted over 18.7 million viewers.
Members of Parliament are advocating for the UK government to ensure that matches from the Rugby League World Cup are broadcast on free-to-air television. The current broadcast rights for the 2026 tournament are held by Premier Sports, a subscription service, which critics argue limits public access and hinders the sport's growth. This contrasts with the 2022 World Cup, which was broadcast on the BBC and attracted over 18.7 million viewers. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has reportedly expressed disappointment with the current broadcasting arrangements, leading to the BBC agreeing to show a highlights package.