The Rugby League World Cup 2021 organising committee (RLWC2021) has signed a partnership deal with Deloitte and announced a strategic goal of being the most digitally-connected sports entertainment event in 2021.

As the tournament's professional services partner, Deloitte will collaborate with RLWC2021 to help create and implement the tournament’s digital strategy – designed to provide an innovative fan experience before, during and after the tournament.

Deloitte has been tasked with developing an activation programme that supports the values and ambition of RLWC2021. The company will also help develop a digital ecosystem and put a strategy in place to support and deliver a digitally-driven tournament aligned with RLWC2021 strategic goals.

“For this tournament to be a success, we have to offer a unique experience and engage with both core fans and a new group of customers," said RLWC2021 CEO Jon Dutton.

"Digital presence is absolutely crucial to reach new and existing fans, but also to ensure an event experience like no other.

"The collaboration with Deloitte – which is known across the globe – will help shape and build our digital strategy. This is a true team-effort, where our shared goal is to become the most digitally-connected sports entertainment event in 2021."

• To read an interview with John Dutton and learn more about the tournament plans, click here for Issue 4 2018 of Sports Management.