The NRL has revealed the schedule for the 2024 Pacific Championships, which will take place in four countries over four weekends in October and November.
This tournament will introduce a promotion and relegation system for the first time, allowing the winners of both the Men’s and Women’s Pacific Bowls to compete against the third-placed teams from the Pacific Cup for a chance to qualify for the 2025 Pacific Cup pools.
Fiji will host matches for the first time, joining other venues such as Port Moresby, Brisbane, Christchurch, Auckland, and Sydney.
The 2024 Championships will consist of a Men’s division featuring Australia, New Zealand, and Tonga in the Cup, while Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the Cook Islands will compete in the Bowl. The Women’s tournament will also have Cup and Bowl divisions, with the Bowl serving as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. The event will kick off at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on October 18 with a double-header, followed by matches in Fiji, Port Moresby, Christchurch, Auckland, and Sydney, concluding with the finals at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on November 10.
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy emphasized the significance of Brisbane hosting the opening round and the expected economic benefits.
The event is backed by the NSW Government’s Destination NSW and the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports.
Tickets are available for as low as $25 for adults and $50 for families, with early access provided to NRL Club Members.