Seven host cities confirmed for 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup

World Rugby has today confirmed the host cities that will stage fixtures during Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.

Set to run from 1st October to 13th November 2027, seven cities - Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Sydney and Townsville - will welcome the world’s best 24 teams during the six-week Australia-wide festival of rugby.

The 52 matches in rugby union’s showcase event will commence at Perth’s Optus Stadium, playing host to the anticipated opening match and four additional pool matches along with two round of 16 matches.

Newcastle and Townsville will each host four pool matches while Adelaide will be hosting five pool matches across the first phase of the tournament.

Melbourne will hold a total of nine matches, including seven pool matches and two of the newly introduced round of 16 matches while Brisbane will stage six pool matches, two round of 16 matches and two quarter-finals making it one of the core Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 destinations.

Sydney will host five pool matches and eight knockout matches, including the semi-finals and the Rugby World Cup final that will see the new champions crowned.

Making the announcement, World Rugby Chair, Brett Robinson stated “we are delighted to reach another significant milestone on our journey to Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.

“The selection of these incredible host cities reflects our commitment to bring Rugby World Cup to as many Australians as possible and maximise the tournament’s positive impact and sporting legacy in all host communities.”

Rugby Australia Chief Executive, Phil Waugh added: “Rugby World Cup is among the planet’s biggest sporting events and Australia is incredibly excited to welcome the world to the 2027 edition.

“Australia has a rich history of hosting major tournaments - indeed, we co-hosted the first ever Rugby World Cup almost 40 years ago - and I have no doubt this event will captivate and enthral the hundreds of thousands attending in-stadium and the hundreds of millions viewing around the world.”

Positive Impact
Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will be the first tournament to feature 24 teams dedicated to fostering a more diverse and connected fanbase, breaking barriers while leaving a positive legacy for Australians and the sport across the region.

With 250,000 international visitors expected over the six-week period, the tournament is projected to generate $1.3 billion in direct visitor expenditure across the country and seven host cities.

The qualification pathway for the tournament begins tomorrow.

Images: The Webb Ellis Cup - the trophy awarded to the winner of the men's Rugby World Cup - on display in Sydney today (top) and England's Jonny Wilkinson kicks the winning points to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Sydney (below).