SANZAAR has announced the Rugby Championship will be held in 2027-2029 as part of a new-look calendar.
The governing body confirmed the tournament will not take place next year, with various international multi-week tours to be played during that window in 2026 and 2030, such as New Zealand's expected tour of South Africa.
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It will return in 2027, delivering a full Rugby Championship tournament for the first time in a World Cup year.
“Looking ahead, our joint-venture is committed to driving the next chapter of southern hemisphere rugby. By collaborating closely with our Unions and valued broadcasting and commercial partners, we've developed an innovative calendar designed to deliver thrilling rugby experiences and set new benchmarks for the game in the years to come," SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris said.
“This new calendar for Southern Hemisphere rugby is all about bringing to the fans the highest level of world-class rugby and action.
"Indeed, after listening to what supporters, broadcasters, and our stakeholders want, we’ve worked with the Unions to craft a bold and dynamic schedule designed to deliver unforgettable moments every year.”
The competition will continue as normal in 2028 and 2029 amid the Nations Championship and the British & Irish Lions tour in New Zealand.
The Nations Championship will kick off in July next year, with the Bledisloe Cup to be played in October.
“The SANZAAR partnership has played an important role in growing the popularity and prosperity of rugby worldwide, and Rugby Australia is excited to enter into a new five-year cycle alongside our great rivals South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina,” RA CEO Phil Waugh said.
“We are particularly looking forward to the Southern Hemisphere’s preeminent tournament, The Rugby Championship, playing in full in 2027, 2028 and 2029 along with a new, thrilling era of Bledisloe Cup, Mandela Challenge Plate and Puma Trophy competition.”
“Whether you’re cheering at the ground or watching at home, get ready for an era of electrifying matches, fierce rivalries, and world-class rugby experiences that put our passionate supporters front and centre," Morris added.
"It’s a new dawn for southern hemisphere rugby, and we can’t wait for our fans to be part of this exciting journey.
“The future of southern hemisphere rugby is brighter than ever. Our member unions have a proud record on the international stage and SANZAAR believes this new calendar will assist in strengthening this record, while delivering to the fans unparalleled excitement and access to the world’s best rugby.”
2026
July - Nations Championship
Aug/Sep - International Tour Series
Oct - Bledisloe Cup
Nove - Nations Championship
2027
July/Aug - Rugby Championship
Oct/Nov - Men's Rugby World Cup
2028
July - Nations Championship
Aug/Sep - Rugby Championship
Nov - Nations Championship
2029
July - Lions Tour to New Zealand/inbound tours
Aug/Sep - Rugby Championship
Sep/Oct - Women's Rugby World Cup
Nov - Northern Autumn Series
2030
July - Nations Championship
Aug/Sep - International Tour Series
Oct - Bledisloe Cup
Nov - Nations Championship
