Get ready for a thrilling new era in southern hemisphere rugby! SANZAAR has just unveiled an exciting international rugby calendar for the next five years, promising an action-packed journey that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
This calendar is a game-changer, reflecting the evolving needs of SANZAAR's member unions, broadcasters, and, most importantly, the passionate fans. It's a bold step forward, building on three decades of incredible rugby action and a partnership that has kept the southern hemisphere teams at the pinnacle of world rankings, with an impressive nine out of ten Rugby World Cup titles to their name.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Rugby Championship (TRC), the premier tournament in the southern hemisphere, will be played in 2027, 2028, and 2029. And for the first time ever, in 2027, a full TRC tournament will be held in a Rugby World Cup year, providing an excellent preparation ground for the SANZAAR nations.
In addition, SANZAAR has introduced a new twist with international multi-week tours in the August-September window during non-Rugby Championship years (2026 and 2030). This adds a fresh layer of excitement and competition to the calendar.
And this is the part most people miss... The proposed Nations Championship, to be played in 2026, 2028, and 2030, will bring together the twelve biggest rugby nations in the world, featuring the sport's best players. This biennial event will decide the dominant nation and the balance of power between the rugby hemispheres, creating an intense and highly anticipated competition.
Within this five-year cycle, the Southern Hemisphere will also host the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup and the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup in Australia, along with the highly anticipated 2029 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand.
SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris had this to say: "Our joint venture is committed to driving the next chapter of southern hemisphere rugby. We've crafted a bold and dynamic schedule, collaborating closely with our unions and valued partners, to deliver unforgettable moments year after year."
"This new calendar is all about delivering the highest level of world-class rugby to our fans. By listening to their desires and working with our stakeholders, we've created a schedule that promises electrifying matches, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable rugby experiences. Our passionate supporters are at the heart of this journey."
"The future of southern hemisphere rugby is incredibly bright. Our member unions have an outstanding international record, and we believe this new calendar will further strengthen that record while providing our fans with unparalleled excitement and access to the world's best rugby."
Stay tuned for more details and schedules from SANZAAR and the National Unions as they finalize their plans in the coming days and weeks.
