2008 Rugby League World Cup
The 2008 Rugby League World Cup was the thirteenth staging of the Rugby League World Cup since its inauguration in 1954, and the first since the 2000 tournament. The tournament was held in Australia from 26 October, culminating in the final between Australia and New Zealand on 22 November.
The 2008 World Cup's opening ceremony
New Zealand lifting the Paul Barrière Trophy after their victory in the final.
Image: Suncorp Stadium
Image: England Australia Cook Cup Telstra Dome
The Rugby League World Cup is an international rugby league tournament contested by the top national men's representative teams. The tournament is administered by the International Rugby League and was first held in France in 1954, which was the first World Cup held for any form of rugby football.
Rugby League World Cup
New Zealand (TL), France (TR), Great Britain (BL), and Australia (BR) shirts from the inaugural 1954 tournament. They were the four nations to compete in the competition until the 1980s.
New Zealand lifting the Paul Barrière Trophy after winning the 2008 tournament
Australia lifting the Paul Barrière Trophy after winning the 2021 tournament