2027 Rugby World Cup: Expanded Format and New Features
The 2027 men’s Rugby World Cup, expanding to 24 teams, will feature a round of 16 for the first time in its history. The inaugural event will take place in Perth, Australia. The tournament, which will take place over six weeks, will begin on October 1, 2027, and conclude on November 13. It will feature the participation of 24 nations, an increase from the 20 that competed in previous editions. The competition format will include six groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout phase. Previously, the quarterfinals marked the beginning of the knockout phase. However, the 2027 expansion introduces a round of the round of 16. The tournament draw will take place on December 3rd, where the 24 participating nations will learn their group opponents.
Robinson added that the inclusion of the round of 16 will increase the excitement of the playoffs, ensuring that each match is crucial and giving each team the opportunity to make history. He highlighted that this was achieved while maintaining an optimized schedule to protect the well-being of the players and enhance the spectacle. Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Sydney and Townsville will be the host cities for the World Cup matches. Sydney will host both semi-finals and the final. Perth’s Optus Stadium, with a capacity of 60,000 spectators, will be the venue for the opening match. The Wallabies’ opponent in that match will be determined after the draw on December 3rd. Chile became the 23rd nation to secure its place after defeating Samoa 31-12 in the South America/Pacific repechage on Saturday. The 24th and final spot will be decided in the Final Qualification Tournament, which will be held in Dubai from November 8 to 18. South Africa, winner of the last two World Cups, will face tough competition from teams like New Zealand, Ireland, England, France, Argentina, and Australia. The Wallabies have shown improvement under coach Joe Schmidt, who will leave his position after Saturday’s match against the All Blacks in Perth. Les Kiss has already been named as his replacement.The expansion of the World Cup to 24 teams is a historic moment for our sport.
Brett Robinson, President of World Rugby
