Get ready for a thrilling new era in southern hemisphere rugby! SANZAAR has just unveiled an exciting international rugby calendar for the years 2026 to 2030, promising an action-packed journey that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
This calendar marks a significant step forward, reflecting the evolving needs of SANZAAR's member unions, broadcasters, and, most importantly, the passionate fans. With a rich history spanning three decades, SANZAAR has consistently delivered some of the most exhilarating rugby moments, keeping the southern hemisphere teams at the pinnacle of world rankings and dominating the Rugby World Cup with nine out of ten titles.
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, a full TRC tournament will be held in a Rugby World Cup year (2027), providing an excellent opportunity for the SANZAAR nations to prepare and showcase their skills leading up to the tournament.
Additionally, SANZAAR introduces a new twist with international multi-week tours in the August-September window during non-Rugby Championship years (2026 and 2030).
The calendar also features the highly anticipated Nations Championship, set to take place in 2026, 2028, and 2030. This concept brings together the twelve biggest rugby nations, packed with the sport's finest players, for two rounds of fixtures in July and November every two years. The competition will determine the dominant nation and the balance of power between the rugby hemispheres, adding an exciting layer of competition and intrigue.
And this is the part most people miss... 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 commented, "Our joint venture is dedicated to shaping the future of southern hemisphere rugby. By collaborating closely with our unions, broadcasters, and commercial partners, we've crafted an innovative calendar that promises to deliver unforgettable rugby experiences and set new standards for the sport."
"This new calendar is all about delivering the highest caliber of rugby to our fans. By listening to the desires of supporters, broadcasters, and stakeholders, we've designed a bold and dynamic schedule that will create electrifying moments year after year."
"Whether you're at the stadium or watching from home, get ready for an era of intense matches, fierce rivalries, and world-class rugby experiences that celebrate our passionate supporters. It's a new dawn for southern hemisphere rugby, and we're thrilled to have our fans join us on this incredible journey."
"The future of southern hemisphere rugby shines brighter than ever. Our member unions have an impressive international record, and we believe this new calendar will further strengthen that record while offering fans unparalleled excitement and access to the world's best rugby."
Stay tuned as SANZAAR and the National Unions release further details and schedules in the coming days and weeks, as they finalize their plans for this exciting chapter in rugby history.
