The members of International Rugby League (IRL) have supported the Board’s recommendation to accept the El Salvador Rugby League Association (ARLES) as an observer member. El Salvador is the 58th member recognised by IRL.

The recognition comes after six years of hard work by volunteers in both El Salvador and Australia. ARLES has an experienced leadership team plus a playing base it believes will grow both domestic competitions for men, women and young people throughout the country and to compete on an international basis.

Hugo Linares, President of ARLES, said: “Our executive board based in Santa Ana feels great honour and privilege to officially have El Salvador recognised as a rugby league nation by IRL. Our association is committed to the long-term growth and prosperity of rugby league. Whilst we are the smallest nation in the Americas, we plan to be one of its strongest competitors. We’re looking forward to our ongoing partnership with International Rugby League.”

Welcoming ARLES to membership, IRL secretary general Danny Kazandjian said: “I would like to thank the Board of ARLES for their diligent work on their application and welcome them as members of IRL. They have some exciting plans in place, and we look forward to them quickly becoming a leading light in the region.

“ARLES is also, crucially, recognised by their government and as such is another nation counting towards our full membership of Global Association of Sports Federations – an important goal for International Rugby League.”