In a landmark announcement that signals a bold new era for the sport, World Netball has confirmed that its flagship event — the Netball World Cup — will now be held every two years. The change, effective after the 2027 edition in Sydney, forms part of a broader strategic vision to elevate the global profile of netball and bring top-tier international action to fans more frequently.
The decision follows World Netball’s earlier announcement outlining a revamped World Cup format beginning in 2027, including the exciting introduction of Cup and Plate competitions. This new structure is designed to enhance competitiveness and ensure more meaningful match-ups across all tiers of participating nations.
Under the updated calendar, the Netball World Cup will move to a biennial cycle, with all future tournaments to be held in November. This scheduling shift provides increased consistency and clarity for athletes, national members, fans, media, and commercial partners — while also protecting the integrity of domestic seasons in countries with professional netball leagues.
“This evolution reflects our commitment to growing the game and showcasing the incredible talent within our sport to a broader global audience,” said a World Netball spokesperson. “Our aim is simple: more opportunities for elite athletes to shine, and more opportunities for fans around the world to engage with netball at the highest level.”
In a further boost to the international calendar, World Netball also announced plans for a brand-new biennial event set to launch in November 2028. Held in non-World Cup years, the competition will ensure that a world-class international netball tournament takes place every year — a significant milestone in the sport’s journey toward greater global prominence.
Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls, at the 2023 Netball World Cup held in Cape Town, South Africa, secured the bronze medal after defeating New Zealand 52‑45 in the third-place playoff.
