Southern Hemisphere Rugby Unveils a Revolutionary Calendar: 2026-2030!
SANZAAR, the powerhouse behind southern hemisphere rugby, has just unveiled a groundbreaking international calendar that will shape the sport's future from 2026 to 2030. This announcement is a game-changer, promising thrilling matches and a new era of rugby excellence.
For over 30 years, SANZAAR has been the driving force behind some of the most exhilarating rugby moments, with its member unions—Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa—dominating the global rankings and claiming nine out of ten Rugby World Cup victories. But here's where it gets even more exciting...
The upcoming years will witness The Rugby Championship (TRC), the pinnacle of southern rugby, taking place in 2027, 2028, and 2029. And this is the part most fans have been waiting for: a full TRC tournament will be played in the 2027 Rugby World Cup year, offering SANZAAR nations the perfect preparation for the sport's ultimate showdown.
In a fresh twist, multi-week international tours will be introduced during the August-September window in non-TRC years (2026 and 2030), adding a new layer of excitement.
The calendar also features the highly anticipated Nations Championship, set to take place in 2026, 2028, and 2030. This tournament will bring together the top 12 rugby nations, boasting the sport's finest talent, for a biennial battle to determine rugby's global powerhouse. But is this the best way to decide the 'dominant nation', or should there be a more frequent competition to truly test the teams' mettle?
The Southern Hemisphere's rugby scene will also host the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup and the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup in Australia, along with the iconic 2029 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, ensuring a non-stop feast of rugby action.
SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing the joint venture's dedication to elevating southern hemisphere rugby to new heights. He stated, "We've crafted a calendar that promises unforgettable rugby experiences, thanks to our close collaboration with unions and partners." But is this calendar truly revolutionary, or is it just a natural evolution of the sport's growth?
Morris added, "Our focus is on delivering world-class rugby to fans, and we've tailored the schedule to create memorable moments annually." But how will this impact the players' schedules and well-being?
As the Southern Hemisphere gears up for this exciting journey, SANZAAR and the National Unions will release detailed schedules soon, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Are you ready for this rugby revolution? What do you think about the new calendar's impact on the sport's future?
