Leeds is only days away from welcoming the Rugby League World Cup back to the city, with Headingley Stadium and Elland Road hosting men’s and women’s matches across the next five weeks.
The eighteen different stadiums have to meet international standards, which takes plenty of planning.
Leeds Rhinos Operations Director Sue Ward has overseen the preparations.
“There’s been so much going on behind the scenes,” she said.
“We’ve been making sure that we meet all the requirements that have been set by the RLWC.”
From stewarding to litter picking, all these elements have to be accounted for months in advance before fans flock to see the best players in the world.
Comparisons to 2013
Leeds is no stranger to hosting international events.
Headingley, home of Leeds Rhinos, was a venue for the last World Cup on UK soil in 2013 and Ward was part of the team that oversaw the stadium’s matches.
She said: “I feel that 2022 we’re delivering to an international standard and we’re right up there with all of the big boys whereas in 2013, we weren’t quite there.
“This year, we’ve worked closely with our partners, and of course Leeds City Council to deliver, whether it’s a capacity crowd or 5000 guests.”
Big project renovations
Between May and June, the Headingley ground staff overhauled the pitch.
Ward said: “The renovation was important for the World Cup and for the start of next year.
“It was a challenging time throughout this year with the renovations and then delivering events like the Summer Bash, which was eight games over a weekend, but the pitch held up, which is great.”
The World Cup begins on October 15th with the World Champions Australia taking on Fiji at 7.30pm.
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