Consolidated statement of comprehensive income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2025	Dec. 31, 2024	Dec. 31, 2023
Statement of comprehensive income [abstract]
Currency translation (charge) / gain	$ 238	$ (317)	$ 47

Represents the amount of exchange differences arising on the translation of the net assets of entities with functional currencies other than the US dollar are recognised directly in the currency translation reserve. These translation differences are shown in the statement of comprehensive income, with the exception of translation adjustments relating to Rio Tinto Limited’s share capital which are shown in the statement of changes in equity.

No definition available.

Name:	rio_CurrencyTranslationGainChargeArisingOnDualListedCompaniesShareCapital
Namespace Prefix:	rio_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration