Spark Sport to broadcast 2021 Rugby League World Cup - is the NRL next?

The World Cup represents the first foray into league for Spark Sport - and could be a significant one. Photo / Photosport

Spark Sport has acquired the rights to the Rugby League World Cup 2021.

Tournament organisers have confirmed the digital platform will have exclusive broadcast rights for the event, set to be staged in Great Britain from 23 October to 27 November.

They will show every match across the men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments.

It represents the first foray into league for Spark Sport – and could be a significant one.

They have previously secured overseas properties like the English Premier League, NBA, NFL and Formula One, before rolling out cricket coverage over the recent summer with the Black Caps and White Ferns.

After gaining the cricket rights, they have been seeking a major winter sport as an anchor for their platform.

"We would very much like to carry a tier one winter sport going forward," Spark Sport boss Jeff Latch told the Herald in April.

The World Cup could be a first step in their ambition to gain the NRL rights, with Sky's current deal running until the end of next season, though the pay-TV operator will be determined to retain one of their most important properties.

The last four league World Cups were all carried by Sky Sport (2017, 2013, 2008 and 2000).

With 16 teams, the men's event will be the biggest in the competition's history and organisers are anticipating record attendances and viewing figures.

However, there are still some complications to be ironed out. The Covid-19 situation in the United Kingdom has improved significantly, with crowds attending the current European Championships in London, but there is still more progress to be made.

There are also challenges in so many teams coming into England for the duration of the tournament, as well as the quarantine period for Australasian based players upon their return.

Jeff Latch of Spark Sport. Photo / Brett Phibbs

According to a media release, Spark Sport won the rights via a competitive tender process, with organisers impressed by the range and breadth of their content proposal.

"Our ambition is for RLWC2021 to open up new opportunities for the sport and Spark Sport has shown their commitment by confirming they will show all 61 matches across the men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments," said RLWC2021 commercial director Jonathan Neill.

"Our partnership with Spark Sport provides a significant focus for growing both the women's and wheelchair games as well as showcasing the excitement of international Rugby League. Spark Sport will provide dynamic and flexible viewing options, with a deep level of content and engagement to support the continued growth of the sport."

Latch said: "Rugby League World Cup 2021 marks a pinnacle event for the rugby league world, and we are proud to have secured the rights to bring the tournament to league fans across Aotearoa.

"There's a huge New Zealand fan base supporting our Kiwi teams, and our neighbouring Pacific teams with Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and the Cook Islands bringing competitive squads and plenty of passion and flair to the tournament.

"I think back to the last Rugby League World Cup and the energy these teams and their fans brought to the sold-out venues. They really were the heart of the tournament and I love that this year we'll get to bring them all the action from England."

Spark Sport said that pricing arrangements are yet to be confirmed.