Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy pushes for free-to-air coverage of Rugby League World Cup

Lisa Nandy, the UK culture secretary and MP for Wigan, called on the International Rugby League to arrange a free-to-air television agreement for the forthcoming Rugby League World Cup. While Premier Sports has secured exclusive broadcasting rights for the men's, women's and wheelchair competitions this autumn, one outlet, which previously aired the tournament and other rugby league fixtures, will not be part of the broadcast package.

Nandy highlighted the sport's role in fostering community pride and voiced fans' disappointment at the loss of free-to-air access. She urged the governing body to work with UK free-to-air broadcasters to ensure the tournament reaches the millions of supporters. One outlet had shown every match of the 2021 World Cup that took place in England in 2022. The 2025 edition, now shifted to Australia after France withdrew, will also feature matches in Papua New Guinea and Christchurch, New Zealand.