Dupont to drive USA 2031 hype?

USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren reveals America could potentially host Six Nations matches as part of efforts to market the sport ahead of the 2031 World Cup.

Speaking to the Daily Mail’s Rugby Confidential, Goren confirmed discussions have taken place about bringing European rugby’s premier Test tournament to American shores.

“We have discussed that,” Goren said. “That doesn’t necessarily help on the high-performance side for USA rugby, but for the marketing side it does.”

The ambitious plan forms part of America’s wider strategy to grow rugby before hosting the men’s World Cup in 2031, the women’s tournament in 2033 and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics featuring sevens.

ALSO: Davidson back to ref Bok opener

The US has already secured matches against England in Washington in July and Scotland in November, with Ireland playing New Zealand in Chicago.

France captain Antoine Dupont’s recent promotional visit to America underscores rugby’s push into the US market, with Major League Rugby reportedly exploring ways to bring the superstar Stateside before 2031.

“We will be able to put on an event like no other,” Goren added. “We’re talking about Super Bowl-level venues.”

FULL STORY

Photo: Jean Catuffe/Getty Images