BOLTON will act as the training base for the French men’s team at next year’s Rugby League World Cup.

The town will play a big role in the tournament with the University of Bolton Stadium hosting two games in the men’s competition, an England group game and a quarter-final.

It has been estimated that the event will boost the Bolton economy to the tune of £4.5million with the bid to be a host venue having involved Bolton Council, Bolton Wanderers, the University of Bolton, Bolton Mets RLFC, Westhoughton Lions RLFC, and Super League club Salford Red Devils.

The announcement of the training bases for the 21 nations and 32 teams came 500 days before the tournament kicks off at Newcastle’s St James’ Park in October next year.

Jon Dutton, RLWC2021 chief executive, said: "Bolton is a fantastic sporting town with a great history and passionate fan base.

“We are hugely exciting for all of our host towns and cities, and we know that the people of Bolton will come together to celebrate welcoming the French men’s team as they look to make their mark on the biggest stage of all.”

The Bolton News: France lost to England at the 2017 World Cup. Picture: Daniel Carson/SWpix./PhotoSportNZFrance lost to England at the 2017 World Cup. Picture: Daniel Carson/SWpix./PhotoSportNZ

Les Chanticleers are the eighth-ranked team in the world, second behind England in Europe, and have twice reached the World Cup final back in 1954 and 1968. 

They reached the quarter-finals in 2008 before losing to England and St Helens hooker Theo Fages is the current captain.

This time around they will compete in Group A against Samoa, Greece and England.

Cllr David Greenhalgh, the leader of Bolton Council said: “We all need something to cheer us up at the moment and look forward to and the fact that our borough will be at the heart of such a global festival of sport next year is just that.

“The news that we will play host to the French rugby league squad gives us a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the history and rivalry of our two great nations in a festival that not only champions sport, but will celebrate the arts, food and heritage.

“As our special guests we’ll look after them, and the fans they bring, cheering them all the way to a final spot against England, we hope.”

Bolton Wanderers chairman Sharon Brittan said: “The people of Bolton will welcome with open arms the French rugby league squad and all their supporters when they come to town.

“They will find a sports-mad, friendly and diverse community who I am sure will leave a positive and long-lasting impression on them.

“We wish them and the other teams taking part in the tournament all the very best as the University of Bolton Stadium looks forward to hosting an England group game and a men’s quarter-final match.”