THE Rugby League World Cup 2021 has launched a competition for a young artist to design the tournament’s mascot.

The brief for the design is to encapsulate the spirit of the competition.

It should represent all three tournaments – the men’s, women’s and wheelchair versions – be eye-catching and recognisable, fun and friendly and have a great name and backstory.

The last time the competition was held in this country in 2013, Bolton student Luke James designed the winning mascot, Grubber Bear.

Rugby League World Cup 2013 mascot meets his young designer

The winning designer will receive two tickets to the Men and Women’s finals day at Old Trafford on Saturday November 19 and the chance to take their entire class at school to another tournament match - excluding finals.

One of the men's fixtures will be played at the University of Bolton stadium - England vs. France on Saturday  October 22, kicking off at 5pm.

They will also get the opportunity to visit the creative studio and see their entry brought to life as the official tournament mascot. 

Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of RLWC2021, said: “Whether it is entertaining the crowd or celebrating with some of the tournament’s biggest stars the mascot for RLWC2021 will be a hugely visible part of the competition and one that will be seen by millions of people around the world.

“We want this year’s Rugby League World Cup to be an event that is remembered as one that inspires young people from all walks of life to get involved in sport and live healthy and active lives. 

“Therefore, we thought it was only right that our tournament mascot be designed by the very people we are aiming to inspire.

“We are really looking forward to seeing the entries come in and starting the journey which will end with our tournament mascot beamed out across the globe at the opening fixture at St James Park on October 15.”

Rugby League World Cup 2021 social impact director, Tracy Power said: “Children learn, and are inspired, in many different ways and sport can be a brilliant tool to get young people passionate about different subjects, whether it be English, Maths, Geography, Science and much more. 

“The resources offer an insight into some of the different cultures and countries that will be part of RLWC2021 providing a really unique learning experience for schools that sign up to the platform.  

“RLWC2021 is about much more than delivering the event.

"It’s about the real impact on communities the tournament leaves behind.

"This work is a huge part of that and taking Rugby League off the field and into the classroom will be hugely beneficial for pupils and schools across the country.”