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World Rugby has confirmed that this year's women's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand has been officially postponed to 2022.

After recommending the postponement last week, World Rugby’s confirmation came after its executive committee ratified the recommendation to postpone the event because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

As part of the announcement, World Rugby also confirmed a $3.6 million funding package focused on developing a Rugby World Cup 2021 high performance preparation and competition programme for qualified teams.

Advising that the tournament, which was due to be played in Auckland and Whangarei between 18^th September and 16th October, will have new 2022 dates announced shortly, World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont stated “our hearts go out to all the players, team personnel and fans who were preparing and looking forward to the World Cup this year.

"The decision to postpone has been made entirely in the interests of their welfare, wellbeing and preparation, and the desire to put on a showcase tournament that will super-charge women's rugby globally."

Among the reasons given for the postponement were the uncertainty of having adequate preparation for all teams, challenges in completing the qualification process, and an inability to guarantee full local and international fan attendance at matches.

Beaumont said by postponing the event by a year, it will ensure a better event that benefits from the global vaccination drive and eased travel burdens, adding "I would also like to emphasise that we are unwavering in our commitment to the women's game.

"The top players in the women's game should be guaranteed the stage that they deserve."

Image: World Rugby says the postponement will ensure a better tournament with benefits from a global vaccination drive and less travel restrictions. Credit: World Rugby/Oisin Keniry.

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