Organisers have confirmed that this year's Rugby League World Cup will go ahead as planned after uncertainty over the event due to Covid.
Some matches will be played across three Greater Manchester venues during the tournament, with Old Trafford set to host both the men's and women's finals.
The event had been in some doubt due to the surge in Covid-19 cases and resistance from Australia’s NRL clubs amid concerns over travel and quarantine restrictions - with calls for the event to be postponed to 2022.
But this morning (July 15) organisers have confirmed the event will take place in October and November as expected - with 61 matches to be played in the men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments across 21 venues.
Jon Dutton, chief executive of Rugby League World Cup 2021, said: “We are delighted to be able to provide clarity and certainty to fans, players, partners, media and those that have supported our journey over the past few years.
"We have an overwhelming desire to deliver the biggest and best ever Rugby League World Cup and through our determination and decisiveness we will be able to achieve this vision.
“We recognise there are still many challenges ahead, but we will work relentlessly and will take the most extraordinary measures with the support of all involved to stage the tournament in 100 days time."
As well as Old Trafford, Leigh Sports Village and the University of Bolton Stadium will host matches during the Rugby League World Cup.
Both the England and Australia teams will be based in Manchester for the event, while the France team will be based in Bolton and Lebanon will be based in Leigh.
It will be the first time that the men's, women's and wheelchair competitions will be held simultaneously, with organisers hoping for capacity crowds during the event.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “As we reach 100 days to go, the anticipation is building with rugby league’s biggest competition coming back to England.
“After the challenges of the past 18 months where the positive impact of Rugby League in communities has shone through, the moment when the men’s, women’s and wheelchair teams take to the pitch will be a watershed moment for both the sport and the country.
“I’m delighted that fans can look forward to a festival of rugby league that promises to inspire new fans and grow the grassroots, and the Government has been pleased to play its part in supporting this incredible inclusive event.”
Organisers say ticket sales have so far exceeded expectations and claim there has already been an extensive positive social contribution made to the communities involved, including some of those hardest hit by the pandemic.
The tournament will kick off on October 23 when England face Samoa at Newcastle’s St James’ Park, with all 61 matches to be shown live on the BBC.
Get the latest news to your email inbox by subscribing to our free newsletters here.
