Singapore admitted as latest International Rugby League Member

International Rugby League’s full members have admitted Singapore into the general assembly, with the southeast Asian country of six million inhabitants becoming the 58^th national federation to join the IRL family.

“Becoming a member of International Rugby League is an important milestone for Singapore Rugby League and a major step forward for the sport in Singapore" said Tony Marshall, President of Singapore National Rugby League. "In a relatively short time, we've brought competitive rugby league back to Singapore, established a domestic competition and celebrated success on the international stage. None of this would have been possible without the hard work and commitment of our clubs, players, coaches, officials and volunteers, who have helped lay the foundations for the game's future. 

"We're proud of how far we've come, but there's still plenty to do. Our focus now is on getting more people involved, creating opportunities for men, women, and young players, and continuing to contribute to rugby league's growth across Asia. We look forward to working closely with International Rugby League and our regional partners to build on what we've achieved.”

Singapore National Rugby League was created earlier this year and held its founding meeting in June. These formal steps followed a series of discussions in 2025, including during the Asian Championship in the Philippines, in which Singapore competed – and won - as a guest, and, subsequently, several months of collaboration between SGNRL and IRL officials on constitutional and structural matters.

The NF’s strategy is built around men’s and women’s club championships and targets six-team competitions in both genders – as well as National Sports Authority recognition - by 2030.   Earlier this month, SGNRL completed its inaugural men’s championship, with Eastern Hornbills winning the three-team league.

The four-person executive committee is part of a 10-strong Board, with the other six Directors responsible for specific functional areas. All Directors serve a mandate of two years. SGNRL’s leadership, which includes SGNRL general manager and senior Perth Bears manager Dane Campbell, comprises a mixture of Singaporean and Australian professionals with extensive business and sports experience.

"Singapore's acceptance as a member is another positive step in the ongoing expansion of rugby league throughout the Asia-Pacific region" added Remond Saif, IRL's Membership & Competitions Manager. "Their inclusion strengthens our regional network and highlights the growing interest in the sport across Asia. We are excited to support Singapore's rugby league journey and believe this development will contribute significantly to the continued growth, connectivity, and opportunities available throughout the region."

Singapore becomes rugby league’s fourth Asian country, joining India, which became an observer member in September, Philippines and Japan. Additional Asian applications are currently being assessed by IRL.