Rugby World Cup heads to Australia

In a massive win for sports fans, the World Rugby Council has confirmed overnight that Australia will host the Rugby World Cup 2027 and 2029.

Announced in Dublin overnight, the decision is an historic day – meaning Australia will become the first country in history to host the showpiece men’s Rugby event for a third time in 2027, while also welcoming the women’s tournament for the first time in 2029.

Premier Peter Malinauskas said the two events were projected to generate $2.8 billion in direct and indirect expenditure to the national economy, while also creating 14,000 FTE jobs and stimulating more than $500 million in new trade and investment.

Should South Australia be confirmed as a host territory, the direct expenditure for the state is estimated to be around $90 million.

Rugby Australia is continuing to work with World Rugby and each State and Territory Government to finalise the host cities and venues. Adelaide last hosted the Rugby World Cup in 2003, when Australia played Namibia, and Argentina took on Ireland.

Quotes to be attributed to Premier Peter Malinaukas:

“It is fantastic that Australia has secured not one, but two, Rugby World Cups.

"As the third-largest sporting event in the world, hosting matches at this event would be a fantastic opportunity to put South Australia on a global sporting stage, generating millions for the state economy and giving fans a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see their idols playing at Adelaide Oval.

“Importantly, there would also be a significant legacy for local rugby, with additional exposure providing the opportunity to attract new players, officials and volunteers, improving grassroots facilities, investment in Rugby development programs to encourage participation and continue to make the game accessible and inclusive.”

Quotes to be attributed to Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison:

“We’ve put our best foot forward in terms of showcasing the world-class fan experience that can be expected when major events are hosted at Adelaide Oval.

"We know there are thousands of outstanding tourism experiences for visitors to choose from when they land in South Australia, so we are absolutely ready to put on a show.”

Quotes to be attributed to Rugby Australia CEO Andy Marinos:

“This is an incredible day for our country and our game and in many ways, the start of a new era for Australian Rugby.

“Through Rugby World Cup 2027 and 2029 we look forward to sharing this great game, showcasing our beautiful and diverse country and its people and importantly growing the sport in communities all over the country.

“I’d like to thank our Federal and State and Territory Governments for the support they’ve all shown in this bid. The shared enthusiasm of our government partners for our vision to bring Rugby World Cup back to Australia has helped demonstrate that we are a safe pair of hands and ready to welcome the world.”