Super Rugby will celebrate its 30th birthday in 2026 with tweaks to its finals system and a full-throttle calendar of 77 matches, starting on 13 February when the champion Crusaders face the Highlanders in Dunedin.

Officials confirmed the competition will retain its six-team finals series, but with a shake-up to the “lucky loser” rule. In previous years, the highest-ranked losing side from the quarter-finals was penalised one spot in the seedings. Under the new model, that team will now progress straight through as the fourth seed, guaranteeing them an away run to the title but ending the loophole that saw the Chiefs host a semi-final last season despite losing earlier in the playoffs.

KEO: Boks seduced by Super Rugby sizzle

Super Rugby chief Jack Mesley said the changes keep the competition true to its roots.

“Thirty years on from the first season, the competition continues to deliver what makes it special. World-class players, high-octane rugby and a connection to communities right across the Pacific.”

The Power continues 😤

30 years. 30 Seasons. Our 2026 fixtures have just dropped 👏

Head over to our website for full fixture list 👉 https://t.co/m2IdNGkFgZ#SuperRugbyPacific pic.twitter.com/MWDeGjBOTv

— Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) August 28, 2025

Each of the 11 clubs will again play 14 games in a 16-round regular season, with the finals tweaks designed to ensure greater fairness while still keeping the drama alive.

The tournament’s popular Super Round is also back, with Christchurch set to host all 12 sides across a festival weekend from 24–26 April, doubling as the grand opening of the brand-new One New Zealand Stadium, which replaces the old Lancaster Park.

🚨 Super Rugby Pacific 2026 fixtures are here 🚨

Which match-up are you looking forward to the most?#SuperRugbyPacific pic.twitter.com/yrXcsYfLVQ

— Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) August 28, 2025

© Agence France-Presse

Photo: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images