The NRL has unveiled the schedule for the 2024 Pacific Championships, which will take place across four countries over four weekends in October and November.
This tournament will introduce promotion and relegation for the first time, allowing the winners of the Men’s and Women’s Pacific Bowls to compete against the third-placed teams from the Pacific Cup for a place in the pools for the 2025 Pacific Cup.
Fiji will host matches for the first time, joining Port Moresby, Brisbane, Christchurch, Auckland, and Sydney as tournament venues.
The men’s division will include Australia, New Zealand, and Tonga in the Cup, while Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the Cook Islands will participate in the Bowl. The women’s tournament will expand to feature both 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, culminating with the finals at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on November 10.
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy emphasized Brisbane’s role in hosting the inaugural round and the anticipated economic benefits of the event.
Support for the tournament comes from the NSW Government’s Destination NSW and the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports.
Tickets are priced starting at $25 for adults and $50 for families, with early access available for NRL Club Members.