The 2026 Bingham Cup, the world’s premier inclusive rugby tournament, concluded with a spectacular display of skill, passion, and community spirit. The Kings Cross Steelers emerged victorious in the men’s competition, while the Ottawa Wolves claimed the Amanda Mark Cup in the women’s division. Held in Brisbane, this biennial event brought together teams from around the globe to celebrate the spirit of rugby and inclusivity.
The Bingham Cup, named in honor of Mark Bingham, a gay rugby player who perished on United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11 attacks, has grown into a global celebration of diversity and sportsmanship. This year’s tournament featured a variety of competitions, including the Bingham Cup, Amanda Mark Cup, Hoagland Cup, and Challenger Cup, each showcasing the talent and dedication of inclusive rugby teams.
The Kings Cross Steelers’ Historic Victory
The Kings Cross Steelers, the world’s first gay and inclusive rugby union club, founded in London in November 1995, clinched the Bingham Cup title with a hard-fought victory over the Sydney Convicts. The final match was a thrilling encounter, with the Steelers securing a narrow 12-5 win. This victory marked their second Bingham Cup title, following their previous win in 2026.
The Steelers and Convicts have a long-standing rivalry, with both teams dominating the tournament over the years. The final match was a testament to their competitive spirit and the high level of play that defines the Bingham Cup. The Steelers’ victory was celebrated by fans and players alike, highlighting the club’s commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for players of all skill levels.
The Ottawa Wolves’ Dominance in the Amanda Mark Cup
The Amanda Mark Cup, introduced in 2018, saw the Ottawa Wolves emerge as champions with a commanding 31-5 victory over the Emerald Warriors. This was the Ottawa Wolves’ second Amanda Mark Cup title, having previously won in 2026. The women’s competition featured seven teams, each demonstrating exceptional skill and passion on the field.
Before the final match, the Emerald Warriors entertained the crowd with a lively performance of the nutbush, while the Ottawa Wolves sang Whitney Houston’s ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ in their huddle. The post-match huddle, where both teams came together in a display of solidarity and camaraderie, epitomized the spirit of the tournament.
Notable Performances and Highlights
The 2026 Bingham Cup was filled with memorable moments and outstanding performances. The Seattle Quake won the Bingham Plate with a 24-12 victory over Les Gaillards, while the Sydney Convicts Old Boys secured the Bingham Bowl with a narrow 15-14 win against the Vancouver Rogues. The Gotham Knights claimed the Bingham Shield with a 21-12 victory over the Perth Rams Black.
The tournament also featured a trans match, which received overwhelming support from the crowd. Chants of ‘Rugby is for everyone’ echoed through the stadium, underscoring the inclusive nature of the event. Additionally, a veterans match added to the rich tapestry of the tournament, celebrating the enduring spirit of rugby.
The Hoagland Cup final between Bristol Bisons and Chicago Dragons Red went into extra time, with both teams scoring tries and converting. The match ultimately required a second overtime with golden points to determine the winner. The Bristol Bisons emerged victorious with a 31-26 win, showcasing their resilience and determination.
The Challenger Cup saw the Adelaide-Tokyo Brats-Sharks team, a combination of two separate teams, win their first silverware at the Bingham Cup. Their 19-7 victory over the Crescent City Rougaroux highlighted the growing talent and competitiveness of inclusive rugby teams from around the world.
Congratulations to all the teams who participated in the 2026 Bingham Cup, as well as the organizers and volunteers who made the event a resounding success. The tournament’s emphasis on inclusivity, community, and sportsmanship continues to inspire and unite rugby enthusiasts globally.
