World Rugby has unveiled the seven host cities for the 11th edition of the men’s Rugby World Cup, taking place in Australia from 1 October to 13 November 2027.
With 250,000 international visitors expected over the six-week period, the tournament is projected to generate AUS$1.3 billion in direct visitor expenditure across the country and seven host cities, while inspiring a nation to embrace rugby, aiming for 200,000 participants by 2029.
Selected for their vibrant culture, world-class hospitality and scenic landmarks, the Rugby World Cup 2027 host cities are:
- Adelaide | Tarntanya
- Brisbane | Meeanjin
- Melbourne | Narrm
- Newcastle | Awabakal-Worimi
- Perth | Boorloo
- Sydney | Gadigal
- Townsville | Gurambilbarra
Perth | Boorloo will play host to the anticipated opening match and treat fans to four additional pool matches and two round of 16 matches. Both Newcastle | Awabakal-Worimi and Townsville | Gurambilbarra will host four pool matches while Adelaide | Tarntanya will be hosting five pool matches across the first phase of the tournament.
Melbourne | Narrm will hold a total of nine matches, including seven pool matches and two of the newly introduced round of 16 matches. On the Australian east coast, Brisbane | Meeanjin 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.
Finally, Sydney | Gadigal will host five pool matches and eight knockout matches, including the semi-finals and prestigious Rugby World Cup final that will see the new champions crowned. The full inventory of host venues and the location of where the host nation Australia will play in the pool phase will be confirmed later in 2025.
Brett Robinson, chair of World Rugby, said: “We are delighted to reach another significant milestone on our journey to the 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. Australia’s iconic cities and rich culture will create an extraordinary atmosphere for fans and players alike, uniting an entire nation for six unforgettable weeks. We look forward to working with host cities to make this tournament one for the ages.”
Phil Waugh, chief executive of Rugby Australia, 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.”
For more information see rugbyworldcup.com