SANZAAR reveals ‘bold and dynamic’ rugby calendar for 2026-2030

SANZAAR has unveiled its international rugby calendar for the next five years, which includes landmark Rugby Championship announcements and international multi-week tours. This schedule aims to reflect the evolving requirements of SANZAAR’s Member Unions.

The Rugby Championship will be held in 2027, 2028 and 2029. SANZAAR has confirmed that, for the first time ever, a full TRC tournament will be played in a Rugby World Cup year in 2027, which will serve as ideal preparation ahead of the sport’s showpiece event.

In 2026 and 2030 when TRC doesn’t take place, international multi-week tours will be played in the August-September window, which is a new concept in SANZAAR’s calendar. This schedule also includes the proposed Nations Championship in 2026, 2028 and 2030.

As World Rugby explained during the 2023 Men’s Rugby World Cup, the Nations Championship will pit the best 12 teams in men’s rugby against one another. This tournament will be split across rounds in July and November every two years to determine the winner.

SANZAAR’s schedule also includes the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, and the 2029 British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand – 12 years on from the famous series draw between the Lions and All Blacks.

“Looking ahead, our joint-venture is committed to driving the next chapter of southern hemisphere rugby,” SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris said in a statement.

“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.

“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.

“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. 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.”