What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The 2027 men's Rugby World Cup will feature an expanded format with 24 nations competing, up from the previous 20. The tournament will introduce a round of 16 for the first time, enhancing the knockout phase. The Wallabies will kick off the event in Perth, with matches hosted across various Australian cities including Sydney, which will host the semifinals and final. The tournament draw is scheduled for December 3, where teams will learn their pool opponents. The expansion aims to increase global engagement with rugby, offering more nations the chance to compete at the highest level.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of the Rugby World Cup signifies a major development in the sport, reflecting its growing popularity and global reach. By increasing the number of participating nations, the tournament provides more opportunities for countries to showcase their talent and compete on an international stage. This change is expected to boost fan engagement and viewership, contributing to the sport's growth worldwide. The introduction of a round of 16 adds more competitive matches, potentially increasing the tournament's excitement and unpredictability.
What's Next?
The tournament draw on December 3 will determine the pool matchups, setting the stage for the competition. Teams will begin preparations for the expanded format, strategizing to advance through the new knockout phase. The Wallabies, currently ranked seventh, will aim to improve their ranking to avoid facing top-tier nations in the pool stage. The final qualification tournament in Dubai will determine the last participating nation, completing the lineup for the 2027 World Cup.
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