Draw for 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup Set for December, Confirms World Rugby

AFP | London

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World Rugby has announced that the draw for the pool stage of the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup will take place in December 2025, setting the stage for the expanded tournament in Australia, which will run from October 1 to November 13, 2027.

In a significant change, the 2027 edition will feature 24 teams, up from the traditional 20 that have participated since the 1999 World Cup. The teams will be divided into six pools of four, promising a more diverse and competitive group stage.

Perth has been confirmed as the host city for the opening match, while Sydney will stage the final, underscoring Australia's status as a premier host nation for major international sporting events.

The final qualification tournament for the remaining spots will be held in Dubai, from November 8 to 18, 2025, offering emerging rugby nations a last opportunity to book their place in the historic edition.

So far, 16 teams have secured qualification:

• South Africa (two-time defending champions)
• France
• New Zealand
• Italy
• Ireland
• Scotland
• Wales
• Fiji
• Australia
• England
• Argentina
• Japan
• Georgia
• Spain
• Portugal
• Romania

The remaining eight spots will be filled through regional qualifiers and the final repechage tournament in Dubai.