England to Host 2025 Rugby Ashes Series

The first rugby league Ashes series in over 20 years is set to take place in England in 2025, following initial discussions between the Rugby Football League and the Australian Rugby League Commission. Originally planned to be hosted in Australia, the series will now provide a significant financial boost to the sport in the UK. The last Ashes series occurred in 2003, with Australia defeating Great Britain 3-0, and the most recent encounter between England and Australia was during the 2016 Four Nations tournament. Proposed venues for the series include Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and the Emirates for the London test, with additional matches in Yorkshire and Lancashire. The series is anticipated to generate substantial interest from fans, sponsors, and broadcasters, marking a potential resurgence for international rugby league. This shift in location reflects the strategic aims of both rugby leagues to enhance the sport's profile and commercial appeal in England.