World Rugby has promised a “bigger, bolder and more accessible” tournament when the men’s Rugby World Cup returns to Australia in 2027 – and for the first time, 24 teams will be part of the showpiece event.

Set to run from 1 October to 13 November 2027, the expanded format will see the 24 nations divided into six pools of four, with the official tournament draw scheduled for December.

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World Rugby chairman Brett Robinson announced in Sydney on Tuesday that 2.5 million tickets will go on sale from February next year – including a million priced under AU$100 (around R1170) to make the event more affordable to families.

“This ticketing programme has been designed with one simple principle: put the fans first,” said Robinson.

“For the first time in over two decades, the men’s Rugby World Cup returns to Australian shores and we’re determined to make it bigger, bolder and more accessible than ever before.”

The governing body is banking on a successful tournament to reignite rugby interest in a country where the sport has faced steady decline, especially after a forgettable 2023 campaign under Eddie Jones.

Sydney has been awarded the final, both semi-finals, and the third-place playoff, as well as a slate of pool and knockout matches. Other host cities include Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Adelaide and Townsville.

Robinson said the tournament would be a chance to “inspire a new generation” and reintroduce rugby to the Australian mainstream.

Photo: World Rugby via Getty Images