The Spanish Rugby Federation (RFER) announced its candidacy with the tagline “Bridge the World”, positioning the upcoming event as a chance to extend rugby’s influence beyond its traditional areas of strength. Although this would be Spain’s inaugural hosting of the event, it competes against established rugby nations vying for the title.

The proposal from Spain includes some of the largest football stadiums in the world, featuring Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu, Barcelona’s Camp Nou, and Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano as potential venues. Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium is also highlighted, showcasing the grand scale of Spain’s aspirations.

An important benefit of this bid is the chance to build upon the infrastructure being developed for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Spain will co-host alongside Portugal and Morocco.

The RFER is confident that the transportation networks, stadiums, security protocols, and event-management expertise established for that tournament will serve as a solid foundation for hosting rugby’s premier international championship.

Holding the final at either Santiago Bernabéu or Camp Nou would provide a stunning backdrop for the tournament’s highlight event. Additionally, Spain’s vast transport system and robust tourism sector could draw fans from around the globe.

The national government and LaLiga support Spain’s bid, with the federation presenting the event as a strategic chance to enhance the domestic sport while boosting its global presence.

For Spanish rugby, the potential rewards extend far beyond merely hosting a major tournament. The federation aims to leverage the event to increase player participation, strengthen local clubs, enhance facilities, and create further pathways for young players to transition into professional rugby.

Moreover, the national team’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, marking its first appearance in the men’s tournament since 1999, lays a crucial groundwork for this goal.

Hosting the World Cup eight years later could deliver another significant boost to the national team and help cultivate a more vibrant rugby culture throughout Spain.

Nonetheless, Spain faces a considerable challenge in convincing World Rugby of its competitiveness as a candidate. Japan, which hosted the successful 2019 tournament, and a proposed bid from South America, led by Argentina, are also vying for the honor.

The selection will occur through World Rugby’s host-selection process, with a preferred candidate expected to be announced in May 2027, followed by a formal appointment in November that same year.

Spain’s bid represents an ambitious initiative to introduce rugby into a new market while capitalizing on the nation’s established reputation as a venue for major sporting events.

Whether it can surpass competing bids remains to be seen; however, the idea of a Rugby World Cup hosted in some of football’s most legendary stadiums certainly enhances the proposal’s allure.