Rugby World Cup 2027: Expanded 24‑team tournament in Australia

Introduction: Why the rugby world cup 2027 matters

The rugby world cup 2027 is set to be a landmark tournament, taking place in Australia from 1 October to 13 November 2027. It is the first edition to feature 24 teams, expanding the field and extending global participation. For fans, players and host cities, the event represents both a celebration of the sport and a logistical challenge, with 52 matches and an expected player pool of 792 athletes across seven Australian cities.

Main details and key events

Dates, format and scale

The tournament runs from 1 October to 13 November 2027 and adopts an expanded format: 24 teams arranged in six pools of four teams each. Across the competition there will be 52 matches and an overall squad total of 792 players, marking a significant growth from previous editions.

Qualified teams

Automatic qualifiers include reigning champions South Africa, three‑time winners New Zealand, England and other nations with secured places: France, Italy, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Fiji, Australia, Argentina and Japan. The regional qualifiers joining them are Georgia, Spain, Romania, Portugal, Tonga, Canada, United States, Uruguay, Chile, Samoa, Zimbabwe and Hong Kong China—completing the 24‑team line‑up.

Host cities and the draw

Matches will be played across seven Australian cities: Adelaide (Tarntanya), Brisbane (Meeanjin), Melbourne (Narrm), Newcastle (Awabakal‑Worimi), Perth (Boorloo), Sydney (Gadigal) and Townsville (Gurambilbarra). The official draw was conducted live from Sydney on 3 December 2025 and streamed by World Rugby; presenters included World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson, All Blacks legend Dan Carter, Wallabies captain James Slipper and former sevens star Alicia Lucas.

Conclusion: What fans should expect

The rugby world cup 2027 is poised to broaden the tournament’s reach and competitive balance by introducing more teams and matches. For supporters, the expanded format offers more fixtures and a wider representation of nations. For Australia’s host cities, the event will bring sustained attention over six weeks of competition. As preparations continue, fans and stakeholders can look forward to a longer, larger global showcase of rugby from October to November 2027.