More Than Football – The Pride of Nations at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup
One of the things I have enjoyed most about the 2026 Rugby League World Cup so far hasn’t just been the football on the field, but the national pride on display throughout the Parramatta area. Driving around my local community, I’ve seen Tongan, Lebanese and Samoan flags proudly displayed on cars, with families and supporters celebrating their heritage and getting behind their nations. It’s a wonderful reminder of the multicultural community that makes Western Sydney such a special place, and how rugby league brings people together.
We’ve also seen that passion inside CommBank Stadium, with supporters bringing their colours, flags, songs and traditions to the stands. I’m particularly looking forward to the Rugby League World Cup tripleheader at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, 1 November, featuring the Australian Jillaroos against Wales in the women’s competition, followed by Lebanon versus France in the men’s competition, before Tonga and Samoa meet in the final match of the evening. Six nations, three international matches and a sold-out stadium should make for a fantastic Sunday afternoon and evening of rugby league, with an atmosphere that celebrates the pride and passion of all six communities.
As a Parramatta Eels supporter, it’s also been fantastic watching players from our Club represent their countries on the international stage. Junior Paulo proudly co-captaining Samoa, Mitchell Moses representing Australia, our Lebanese representatives, our Papua New Guinean players and those involved in the women’s tournament all demonstrate the international reach of our Club. Seeing players who wear the Blue and Gold during the NRL and NRLW seasons proudly represent their families, heritage and nations is something every Parramatta supporter can appreciate.
For me, this Rugby League World Cup is another reminder that rugby league is about much more than results and premierships. It’s about community, belonging, identity and pride. Those are the things that make our game special, and I hope the passion we’re seeing across Parramatta continues long after the Rugby League World Cup finishes.
