The 2019 IFAF World Championships will be held at the WIN Stadium, Wollongong, Australia ©2019IFAFWC/Twitter

The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) has announced the Australian city of Wollongong as the host of the 2019 IFAF Men's World Championships.

Gridion Australia, the national governing body for the sport, will hold the Championships at the WIN Stadium from July 23 to August 5, 2019.

Eight teams from around the world will compete in the 20th anniversary edition of the Championships.

Wollongong Lord Mayor, Councillor Gordon Bradbery, welcomed the tournament to New South Wales state.

"What a thrill it is to welcome the American Football World Championships to Wollongong," he said.

"To have international participants and guests enjoying our attractions, natural assets and small bars and cafes for a fortnight is a coup for the city, as we showcase WIN Stadium to the world.

"I'm sure the teams will leave with lasting memories of our beautiful region, along with a few bruises after they come up against the Aussies."

 Sports Minister Stuart Lawrence Ayers praised the "historic" announcement.

"This is the first time an IFAF World Championship will be held on Australian soil," he said.

"Hosting a major international event like this in New South Wales provides more than economic benefits.

"It puts us on the map globally and demonstrates that Australia can take on the world in an American game."

Local player Jordan Stalker was selected in the world team at the 2012 IFAF International Bowl when they beat the United States 35-29.

Gridion Australia is a member of the IFAF and Michael Ryan, IFAF Oceania Chair, was excited by the event that will look to build on previous tournaments.

"It's a tremendous opportunity to showcase the sport in Australia and the Oceania region and we look forward to welcoming the world's athletes down under," Ryan said.