World Cup finals at Old Trafford to have safe standing area
Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix
Rugby League World Cup organisers are to introduce a safe standing area at Old Trafford for the final double-header in November.
Fans attending the men’s and women’s finals at Old Trafford on November 19 will now have the option to stand.
RLWC2021 chief executive Jon Dutton said: “We are already anticipating a special atmosphere at all of our tournament finals. The introduction of safe standing for the men’s and women’s final at Old Trafford will undoubtedly add an extra element to the day.
“We know that many rugby league fans across the country enjoy the matchday experience in the terraces alongside their friends; and this will be a feature across many of our traditional rugby league venues throughout the tournament.
“To be able to introduce this option for two World Cup finals is ground-breaking; particularly in a stadium such as Old Trafford.
“There are a limited number of these tickets available, and we expect them to sell quickly.”
World Cup organisers anticipating record-breaking crowds
Rugby League World Cup organisers are hoping to emulate the success of the Women’s Euro 2022 by hosting record-breaking crowds this autumn.
Tournament chief executive Jon Dutton says they are expecting sell-outs for the men’s opening fixture between England and Samoa in Newcastle on October 15 as well as both semi-finals and the finals day at Old Trafford on November 19.
Officials also expect to break the attendance record for women’s rugby in either code. England host Brazil in the opening game at Headingley.
A crowd of over 5,000 is guaranteed for England’s opening wheelchair clash with Australia at the Copper Box in London.
The current women’s record of 15,862 was set for England’s rugby union clash with Ireland in Leicester earlier this year. Tournament revenue director Mick Hogan said: “It’s our intention to go higher than that at Headingley.”
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