A motion has been tabled in the UK Parliament calling the Rugby League World Cup “spectacular”, “thrilling” and a “testament to the appeal of international rugby league”.

The motion congratulates all involved in creating what is already known to be the most successful World Cup to date, and thanks the host nations and all visiting teams for creating such a “compelling competition” which “demonstrates the appeal of international rugby league.”

The 2013 Rugby League World Cup has set records throughout the tournament, with sell-out crowds and a world record attendance for international rugby league of nearly 75,000 at the final.

The motion was tabled by the Chairman of the Parliamentary Rugby League Group, Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland, who said “The Rugby League World Cup has been an amazing spectacle of sport. We saw some magnificent games, upsets, heartbreak and incredible exhibitions of skill and athleticism. All those involved in delivering the tournament should rightly feel very proud – we are certainly proud of you.

“All Members of the UK Parliamentary Rugby League Group are looking forward to hearing from those involved once the tournament review is complete and how the legacy of the tournament will be managed domestically and internationally.”

The full text of the motion reads:

That this House congratulates the players, team staff, fans, spectators, volunteers, and organisers of the Rugby League World Cup 2013 for what has been a spectacular, thrilling and hugely popular tournament;

feels this demonstrates the appeal of international rugby league;

embraces the true sporting values shown by all involved;

is proud of England and Wales on having hosted another fantastic spectacle of international sport;

applauds the England, Scotland and Wales teams for their performances on the field;

thanks Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, France, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tongo and USA for creating such a compelling competition;

congratulates Australia on becoming World Champions;

is looking forward to the Rugby League World Cup 2017;

recognises RLWC2013 as the most successful World Cup to date, including a record-breaking sell-out game for the final between Australia and New Zealand;

is confident in the legacy it will create for the sport in the UK and around the world.