An action-packed season of Super Rugby Pacific has been confirmed in 2026, with the competition celebrating 30 years of rugby.
The 2026 season will see 77 matches and a 16-round regular season, with a six-team Finals Series.
The Finals Series has come with a tweak to the ‘lucky loser’ mechanic introduced to the competition's Finals Series last season, off the back of fan feedback to the Chiefs being defeated in qualifying finals, but still hosting a semi final.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL 2026 SUPER RUGBY PACIFIC DRAW
Instead of being penalised one seeding, the highest ranked losing team from the Qualifying Finals will now progress as fourth seed, ensuring they play away from home in the Semi-Finals and also the Grand Final should they qualify.
The opening round will kick off with several big derby clashes, with the Crusaders facing the Highlanders in Dunedin, the Fijian Drua hosting Moana Pasifika in Lautoka and the Waratahs hosting the Reds in Sydney.
The Western Force will also throwback to their first ever Super Rugby fixture, as they host the ACT Brumbies in Perth.
Other exciting news will see the competition head to Tonga for the second time ever, with Moana Pasifika taking on the Chiefs at Teufaiva Stadium in Round 9.
Super Round will also make a return during the ANZAC Day long weekend, with the highly anticipated opening of One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch the setting for several Trans-Tasman ANZAC fixtures which have proven extremely popular over the last few seasons.
"In 2025 we saw Super Rugby Pacific take another big step forward, with more fans, more drama, and more unexpected results,” Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley said in an official statement.
“That success has set the stage for an even bigger year in 2026 as we mark a milestone in Super Rugby.
"Thirty years on from the first Super Rugby season, the competition continues to deliver what makes it special – world-class players, high-octane rugby and a connection to communities right across the Pacific.
"The 2026 draw has something for everyone. With Super Round coming to Ōtautahi Christchurch and the full draw now released, it's the perfect time for fans to start planning how they’ll be part of the action."
