North East loses expected £15m boost as Rugby League World Cup is postponed until 2022
The North East will no longer get an anticipated £15 million boost this year after the postponement of the Rugby League World Cup.
It was confirmed on Thursday August 5, that the tournament would be delayed until 2022.
Newcastle's St James' Park was set to host the opening match, while games were due to take place elsewhere in the city, and in Middlesbrough and York.
Tournament chief executive Jon Dutton insisted the vast majority of players remained keen to take part in the contest.
The tournament was due to kick off in Newcastle on October 23 while matches were also scheduled for elsewhere in the city - with others due to take place in Middlesbrough and York.
It was expected to bring £15 million for local businesses.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said he was "disappointed", adding: "Despite working tirelessly to explore solutions that would allow us to go ahead as planned, circumstances beyond our control have meant that postponing the Rugby League World Cup until next year is the strongest option for staging a successful tournament.
"In the best interests of the sport and its millions of supporters around the world, I look forward to the Rugby League authorities in all competing nations accommodating a rearranged tournament in 2022, so we can put on the spectacle the fans deserve."
Reacting to the news, Newcastle City Council said it was "absolutely committed" to being one of the host venues.
No decision has yet been made on how many games will be played in Newcastle in the rearranged World Cup or whether St James' Park will still be able to host the opening fixture.
New dates for the tournament have not been set yet and agreements would have to be reached again to avoid potential clashes with either Newcastle United or Falcons home games.
Council figures have indicated, however, that the city is currently working on the basis that Newcastle would want to host at least the same number of games - three - as had been originally scheduled, plus the opening ceremony.
Leader Nick Forbes said the council would continue to work with tournament organisers, adding: "We know that many businesses, especially in the region's hospitality sector, will be disappointed with the outcome of this announcement and we will continue to support them throughout the recovery from the pandemic."
On social media, the Rugby League World Cup posted a statement:
"We hope fans will continue to support the tournament. Your tickets will automatically transfer and will be valid for 2022, there is nothing more you need to do. We understand that some fans may require a refund. The process and timeline will be communicated on 12 August. "