An inclusive rugby club is hoping to bring the LGBTQ+ Rugby World Cup to Leeds after launching a bid to host the prestigious Bingham Cup in 2028.
Leeds Hunters have submitted plans to stage the biennial tournament, alongside the Amanda Mark Cup, from 24 - 29 July 2028, with organisers hoping to welcome up to 4,000 players from around the world.
Widely regarded as the largest amateur rugby tournament on the planet, the Bingham Cup brings together LGBTQ+ and inclusive rugby teams from across the globe and has become one of the sport’s most celebrated events.
Hunters player Nathan Martin described the competition as “a rugby tournament like no other”. “It’s about feeling connected, it’s about being with other people that may be like you, may be different, but you’re welcome,” he said.
The tournament was first held in San Francisco in 2002 in memory of Mark Bingham, a gay American rugby player who died during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Amanda Mark Cup, a competition for women’s teams, was added in 2022.
Both tournaments are organised by International Gay Rugby (IGR) in partnership with the host city club.
The Leeds bid has secured backing from Leeds Rhinos Foundation, Leeds Tykes, Leeds City Council and the University of Leeds.
For Hunters player Chris Languedoc, hosting the event in Leeds would highlight how far attitudes towards LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport have progressed. “When I was younger, I wasn’t openly gay, and I couldn’t fit in, couldn’t act the same way,” he said.
“I was excluded, always picked last.
“I didn’t ever think I’d feel like this – being part of a club and an organisation that accepts you for who you are. You can be your authentic self.”
The Leeds club faces competition to secure hosting rights, with Dublin, Vancouver, Orlando, Perth and Querétaro also bidding for the event.
Leeds City Council leader James Lewis said the tournament would provide a major opportunity to showcase the city on an international stage.
“Leeds prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive city and the prospect of hosting this event is tremendously exciting,” he said.
“The Bingham Cup is the world’s largest LGBTQ+ inclusive rugby tournament, attracting thousands of players and visitors from across the globe.
“It represents not only a major sporting event, but also a significant opportunity to showcase Leeds as an inclusive, welcoming and vibrant city.”
International Gay Rugby is expected to announce the successful host city within the next few months.
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