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'Stages for history': Rugby World Cup 2027 venues revealed
By Ned Lester
Rugby World Cup 2027 continues to take shape with the announcement of the eight venues set to host the tournament across Australia.
Five of the announced stadiums hosted games in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, adding a special legacy and nostalgia to the event.
While fans await the official match schedule announcement on February 3, it is confirmed that Perth Stadium will host the opening match of the tournament, and Stadium Australia will host the final in Sydney.
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The Sydney Football Stadium joins Stadium Australia as Sydney’s second venue, while the seven other cities – Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, and Townsville – boast one venue each.
It is also confirmed that Adelaide and Melbourne will host six pool games each, with Melbourne’s Docklands Stadium, which features a retractable roof, then hosting two Round of 16 games in the new, expanded tournament format.
Facilities, availability and potential reach were all primary criteria for World Rugby’s selection process when consulting with Host Governments.
Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 Managing Director, Chris Stanley, said: “The selection of these stadiums reflects not only Australia’s proud rugby legacy but also our unwavering commitment to creating an unforgettable Rugby World Cup experience for every fan. From iconic national arenas to vibrant regional hubs, each venue has been chosen for its ability to deliver world-class facilities and electric atmospheres that will showcase the very best of our game.
“These stadiums are more than just places to play, they are stages for history, where passion and community come together to celebrate rugby’s global spirit. Today marks another exciting milestone on the journey to Australia 2027, and we cannot wait to welcome fans from across the world to experience the magic of this tournament in every corner of our country.”
Host Cities and Venues
Adelaide | Tarntanya
- Adelaide Oval – Located on the riverside and known for its stunning blend of heritage and modern design, it hosted matches in Rugby World Cup 2003, including Australia’s victory over Namibia.
- Capacity: 53,000
- Matches: Six pool matches
Brisbane | Meeanjin
- Brisbane Stadium – Known as “The Cauldron”, it is one of Australia’s most iconic rugby venues offering an electric atmosphere with fans close to the action. The stadium hosted nine Rugby World Cup matches in 2003 and featured 13 of the 2027 qualified teams.
- Capacity: 52,500
- Matches: Six pool matches, two round of 16 and two quarter-finals
Melbourne | Narrm
- Docklands Stadium – The only fully enclosed venue in the tournament. The roof will remain closed for all matches, ensuring perfect conditions for players and fans. Hosted seven RWC matches in 2003.
- Capacity: 53,000
- Matches: Six pool matches and two round of 16
Newcastle | Awabakal-Worimi
- Newcastle Stadium – Set to host Rugby World Cup matches for the first time in 2027. The venue’s rugby heritage includes the British & Irish Lions’ 1989 match against NSW Country and the Wallabies’ 2012 Test against Scotland.
- Capacity: 30,000
- Matches: Four pool matches
Perth | Boorloo
- Perth Stadium – Opened in 2018 by the Swan River, the multi-award-winning venue is recognised globally for its design and fan experience. A regular host to Wallabies Test matches, the stadium will host the RWC 2027 opening match on 1 October 2027.
- Capacity: 60,000
- Matches: Five pool matches (including the opening) and two round of 16
Sydney | Wangal & Gadigal
- Stadium Australia – The biggest stadium used across the tournament, it joins iconic venues Eden Park, Twickenham and Stade de France as the only stadiums in history to host a Men’s Rugby World Cup Final for a second time.
- Capacity: 82,000
- Matches: Two pool matches, two quarter-finals, two semi-finals, Bronze Final and Final
- Sydney Football Stadium – Reopened in 2022 after a complete rebuild, the most modern stadium of RWC 2027 located in the heart of Sydney will offer fans an electric atmosphere and cutting-edge facilities.
- Capacity: 42,500
- Matches: Three pool matches and two round of 16
Townsville | Gurambilbarra
- North Queensland Stadium – Opened in 2020 and making its Rugby World Cup debut, the stadium’s striking roof design is inspired by the tropical pandanus plant, native to the North Queensland region.
- Capacity: 25,000
- Matches: Four pool matches
Following the announcement of the tournament match schedule on February 3, fans will have the chance to secure presale tickets during a two-week window beginning February 18 at 12:00 AEDT.
To secure tickets, fans must create a Men’s Rugby World Cup ticketing account at tickets.rugbyworldcup.com before 12:00 AEDT (GMT+11) on Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
To be first in line for Rugby World Cup 2027 Australia tickets, register your interest here
