DRAW
MEDIA GUIDE
3 December, 2025 – Sydney
CONTENTS
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Welcome message
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Australia, RWC 2027 hosts
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Host cities
8
Competition format
10
A tournament for all
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A unique identity
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Qualification Journey to Australia 2027
16
How the draw works
18
Media contacts and resources
19
RWC 2027 by numbers
20
Team profiles
46
Past RWC pools (1987-2023)
48
Tournament partners and suppliers
There is a palpable sense of anticipation as we look ahead to Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027. We are on the cusp of the biggest rugby competition ever staged, a defining moment and a genuine step forward for our global game. Twenty-four years on, Australia is ready to host again and put on a show. Seven iconic host cities, world-class venues, and a bold new format featuring 24 nations will showcase how rugby is thriving and expanding across every continent. Expect breathtaking skill, fierce competition, and the kind of unity that draws people together; this is rugby at its best, with that unmistakable Aussie twist.On 3 December, we mark a crucial milestone: the Rugby World Cup Draw. With all 24 teams confirmed and ready to go all out, the six pools of four will be set, shaping the first Rugby World Cup under the new format. The introduction of a round of 16 brings greater jeopardy, earlier knockout drama, and even more entertainment from the opening matches.At the heart of our ambition is openness. We want this global celebration to be accessible to everyone, from lifelong supporters to newcomers discovering the game. That’s why we’re making one million tickets available for under AUD$100, with child pricing offered at most matches. The invitation is genuine, and it extends to the world.This is not just a tournament. It is a global party, full of character, connection, and possibility. And you are all welcome.
Brett Robinson //
World Rugby Chair
“THE BIGGEST RUGBY COMPETITION EVER STAGED”
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AUSTRALIA, VIBRANT HOSTS READY TO GO ALL OUT
Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia marks the dawn of a transformative era for the sport. This 11th edition will be the moment rugby takes a giant leap forward, becoming more inclusive, exciting, and ambitious than ever before. For six weeks from 1 October-13 November, 2027, Australia will welcome the world to a nationwide festival of rugby, celebrating its rich culture and heritage, and kicking off a new era of rugby that will have a positive impact for Australia, Oceania and the game globally.With an expanded format contested by the world’s top 24 teams over 52 matches, Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will inspire an entire generation and break down barriers by making rugby even more accessible, relevant and inclusive, boosting rugby’s fanbase and participation globally.
Rugby World Cup 2027 will take place in seven host cities across Australia, which were selected for their vibrant culture, world-class hospitality and scenic landmarks.
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This will be the first time that Australia hosts the tournament since 2003. Australia also co-hosted the inaugural tournament with New Zealand in 1987 and were crowned world champions twice in Europe, in 1991 and 1999.In a nation renowned for hosting some of the world’s most iconic sporting events, Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will carve its own place in history, a spectacular tournament that invites everyone to be part of the action.All revenue generated by Men’s RWC 2027 will be reinvested into the sport, supporting World Rugby’s global growth ambition, its 134 member unions and six regional associations.
Celebrating First Nations Heritage
Each host city for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is recognised by its original name in the language of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as a meaningful acknowledgement of Country and a tribute to the rich cultures, enduring knowledge, and vital contributions of First Nations communities to the story of Australia – past, present and future.
NEWCASTLE | AWABAKAL-WORMISYDNEY | GADIGALBRISBANE | MEEANJINTOWNSVILLE | GURAMBILBARRAPERTH | BOORLOOMELBOURNE | NARRMADELAIDE | TARNTANYA