Tees Valley’s bid to host fixtures for the Rugby League World Cup 2021 could enhance the regional economy by up to £8million, it was revealed today.

Speaking to businesses at an event to outline the benefits of a winning bid, Tees Valley Combined Authority’s head of culture, Linda Tuttiett, said that hosting matches could give the region an economic upswing of £8million.

Also addressing the audience was Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of the Rugby League World Cup 2021, who highlighted the transformative effect that holding matches had made elsewhere.

The region has a long history of engaging with both Rugby and other international sporting events.
Darlington Mowden Park RFC has previously hosted the New Zealand All Blacks, with head coach Steve Hansen calling their facilities “outstanding” and “one of the best in the world”. Riverside Stadium has been home to major international European football matches.

The Rugby League World Cup 2021 bid is being put together by a partnership of Tees Valley Combined Authority, Middlesbrough Football Club, Middlesbrough Council and Darlington Mowden Park RFC.