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Monday, February 17, 2025

Australia Prepares for a Landmark 2027 Rugby World Cup: Host Cities Announced

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World Rugby has officially unveiled the seven host cities for the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup, set to take place in Australia from October 1 to November 13, 2027. This historic edition will feature an expanded 24-team format, promising an unforgettable spectacle for rugby fans worldwide.

Seven Cities, One Nation United by Rugby

The tournament will be staged across some of Australia’s most iconic cities, each selected for its vibrant culture, world-class venues, and ability to host major international sporting events. The confirmed host cities are:

Adelaide | Tarntanya (South Australia) – Five pool matches

Brisbane | Meeanjin (Queensland) – Six pool matches, two round-of-16 matches, and two quarter-finals

Melbourne | Narrm (Victoria) – Seven pool matches and two round-of-16 matches

Newcastle | Awabakal-Worimi (New South Wales) – Four pool matches

Perth | Boorloo (Western Australia) – Five pool matches (including the tournament opener) and two round-of-16 matches

Sydney | Gadigal (New South Wales) – Five pool matches, two round-of-16 matches, two quarter-finals, both semi-finals, the bronze final, and the Rugby World Cup final

Townsville | Gurambilbarra (Queensland) – Four pool matches

Sydney has emerged as the focal point of the tournament, securing the rights to host both semi-finals and the final at Stadium Australia. Perth will open the tournament, while Melbourne’s hosting status was solidified following last-minute negotiations to ensure the city remained an integral part of the event.

A Tournament for the Ages

The decision to expand the competition to 24 teams brings added excitement and global inclusivity, marking a significant step in rugby’s development. This expanded format includes a new round-of-16 stage, increasing the total number of matches from 48 to 52.

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson expressed enthusiasm about the announcement: “We are thrilled to bring Rugby World Cup 2027 to these seven cities, ensuring that as many Australians as possible experience the magic of this event. The tournament will not only showcase world-class rugby but will also leave a lasting legacy for the sport across the country.”

Economic and Cultural Impact

With an estimated 250,000 international visitors expected to attend, Rugby World Cup 2027 is projected to generate AU$1.3 billion in direct visitor expenditure. The tournament will boost Australia’s tourism sector, create jobs, and inspire a new generation of rugby players and fans.

Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil Waugh highlighted the significance of hosting the event: “Australia has a proud history of hosting major global sporting events, and Rugby World Cup 2027 will be no different. The economic benefits, increased participation, and excitement this tournament brings will have a lasting impact on our country.”

Sydney Secures the Grand Finale

Sydney’s successful bid to host the final continues its legacy from the 2003 Rugby World Cup, where England’s Jonny Wilkinson secured victory with a historic extra-time drop goal. Despite competition from Melbourne and Perth, the New South Wales Government’s substantial investment ensured the final would remain in Sydney.

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin praised Sydney’s efforts: “Sydney stepped up in a big way to secure the final, and with its rich rugby history and top-tier stadiums, it was the right choice.”

The MCG in Melbourne was initially considered for the final, which would have set a new attendance record for a Rugby World Cup decider. However, with Victoria’s government negotiating a late deal, Melbourne will instead host nine matches, including two round-of-16 encounters.

A Rugby Legacy for the Future

This Rugby World Cup sits at the heart of a golden decade for Australian rugby, with the British & Irish Lions tour in 2025 and the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2029. The 2027 tournament aims to strengthen rugby’s footprint both in Australia and globally.

Incumbent Wallabies captain Harry Wilson underscored the tournament’s significance: “Hosting a World Cup on home soil is the dream of every player. I remember the excitement of 2003, and now, we have the chance to inspire the next generation.”

With just over two years until kickoff, excitement is mounting for what promises to be a defining chapter in the history of rugby. As Australia prepares to welcome the world, anticipation continues to build for six weeks of elite competition, unforgettable moments, and a legacy that will resonate long after the final whistle blows.

Photo: Photo by Brendon Thorne - (World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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