The RLWC2021 will see the men’s, women’s and wheelchair tournaments played concurrently for the first time.

Earlier this year, international nations were asked to submit their expressions of interest with each country assessed against set criteria which included their current international and domestic infrastructure, their plans for growth and their potential impact on RLWC2021.

The women's tournament has been expanded to eight teams since the last World Cup in 2017 with France and Brazil joining Canada, Cook Islands, England, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and defending Champions Australia.

It will also be the first time a South American nation debuts at a Rugby League World Cup. 

Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Italy and the USA were among the nations to miss out with RLIF CEO Nigel Wood hoping they would take part in women's Emerging Nations World Cup, which will be a part of the Festival of World Cups 2021.

“Women’s sport is growing exponentially, and rugby league is no exception," Wood said.

"I would like to add my congratulations to each nation and wish them all the best in their build-up to what will be a fantastic event in 2021 and to thank all the nations who participated in this process." 

"We have to ensure that there is clear pathway developed quickly to cater for a fuller women’s international programme with events organised locally, regionally and globally, all leading to a full qualification process for the RLWC2025."

The draw for the tournament will take place in November 2019 with the women’s tournament will begin on November 13, 2021 at the famous Anfield.