Wallabies to Launch Expanded Rugby World Cup in Perth with New Format

What's Happening?

The 2027 men's Rugby World Cup will introduce a new format featuring a round of 16, marking a significant expansion from previous tournaments. The event will commence in Perth, Australia, with the Wallabies set to kick off the tournament. A total of 24 nations will participate, an increase from the previous 20, competing over six weeks from October 1 to November 13, 2027. The tournament will consist of six pools, each containing four teams, with the top two from each group and the four best third-placed teams advancing to the knockout phase. This change aims to enhance the competitive nature of the tournament, providing more opportunities for nations to progress. The tournament draw is scheduled for December 3, where teams will learn their pool opponents.

Why It's Important?

The expansion of the Rugby World Cup to include more teams and a new knockout phase is a landmark development for the sport, reflecting its growing global appeal. This change is expected to increase fan engagement and provide more competitive matches, potentially boosting viewership and revenue. For the Wallabies, hosting the opening match in Perth offers a significant opportunity to showcase Australian rugby on the world stage. The new format also allows emerging rugby nations to gain exposure and experience at the highest level, which could contribute to the sport's development worldwide.

What's Next?

Following the tournament draw on December 3, teams will begin preparations for the expanded format. The introduction of a round of 16 is likely to influence team strategies and preparations, as more matches will be crucial for progression. Host cities across Australia, including Sydney, which will host the semifinals and final, are expected to ramp up logistical and promotional efforts to accommodate the influx of international teams and fans. The final qualification tournament in Dubai will determine the last team to join the competition, adding further anticipation to the event.