The NRL has unveiled the draw for the 2024 Pacific Championships, set to take place in four countries over four weekends in October and November. This tournament will introduce a new promotion and relegation system, allowing the champions of the Men’s and Women’s Pacific Bowls to compete against the third-placed teams from the Pacific Cup for spots in the 2025 Pacific Cup pools.
Fiji will host matches for the first time, joining Port Moresby, Brisbane, Christchurch, Auckland, and Sydney as venues for the event. The 2024 Championships will feature a Men’s division that includes 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 competition will also expand to feature Cup and Bowl divisions, with the Bowl serving as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. The tournament will kick off on October 18 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium with a double-header, followed by matches in Fiji, Port Moresby, Christchurch, Auckland, and Sydney, culminating in the finals at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on November 10.
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy has emphasized the significance of Brisbane hosting the opening round and the anticipated economic benefits. The event has the backing of the NSW Government’s Destination NSW and the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports.
Tickets for the Championship are available starting at $25 for adults and $50 for families, with early access for NRL Club Members.