Getting ready for the Rugby World Cup in Australia
The Springboks are ready to defend their title. Check out the match dates and opponents for South Africa at the Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Rugby fans across the globe are already marking their calendars for a massive celebration of sport down under.
The next edition of the showpiece event is headed to Australia, and it promises to be a festival like no other. With the tournament expanding to 24 teams, more nations than ever before will be competing for the ultimate prize, and the atmosphere in the host cities is expected to be electric.
Planning for the Rugby World Cup in Australia
The tournament runs from 1 October to 13 November 2027, covering seven vibrant host cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Townsville and Newcastle. The action kicks off at Perth Stadium, where the host nation will face Hong Kong China.
This opening match sets the stage for six weeks of high intensity rugby played across some of the most iconic sporting venues in the southern hemisphere.
Defending champions South Africa will begin their campaign on 3 October at the Adelaide Oval, taking on Italy.
Their pool stage journey continues with a match against Georgia at Brisbane Stadium on 10 October, followed by a clash with Romania at Perth Stadium on 17 October. These matches are strategically scheduled to ensure fans can travel between cities and experience the unique charm of each region.
Exploring the host cities and venues
The variety of locations chosen for the Rugby World Cup in Australia offers something for every type of traveller.
Sydney will be the primary hub for the knockout stages, with Stadium Australia hosting both semi finals and the final. The city’s second venue, the Sydney Football Stadium, will also feature heavily in the early rounds and the round of 16.
For those heading to Melbourne, the Docklands Stadium offers a unique experience as the only fully enclosed venue in the tournament, ensuring perfect conditions regardless of the weather. Meanwhile, Townsville and Newcastle will make their debut on the world stage, showcasing regional Australia’s passion for the game.
Whether it is the tropical vibes of North Queensland or the bustling city life of Brisbane, each stop on the tour promises a memorable experience.
Important dates for the Rugby World Cup in Australia
As the tournament moves into the business end, the excitement will only build. The first ever round of 16 matches are scheduled for 23 and 24 October, taking place in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth. The quarter finals will then be split between Sydney and Brisbane on 30 and 31 October.
To ensure you do not miss out on your preferred fixtures, it is a good idea to register for the official ticketing phases which begin in February 2026. This allows you to plan your itinerary around the specific match dates and secure your spot in the stands to witness rugby history in the making