Starting in 2027, the Rugby World Cup will accommodate 24 teams, in contrast to the 20-team format currently in place during the ongoing World Cup in France. This expansion entails the addition of a last-16 stage, providing more excitement for fans as teams compete for the prestigious title. Additionally, the tournament's duration will be reduced to six weeks from the previous seven.
The draw for this tournament will take place in January 2026, a year prior to the event, addressing concerns raised about the timing of previous draws.
Criticism had arisen due to the draw for this year's World Cup being made three years before the actual competition, leading to an unfortunate situation where the world's top five ranked teams were placed on the same side of the draw.
To address this issue and create a more balanced competition, a new, yet-to-be-named tournament will be introduced, effectively replacing the current summer and autumn international windows. This new tournament will be scheduled for July and November of alternate years, with exceptions during World Cup years or British and Irish Lions tours.
Much like the World Cup, this new tournament will feature 24 teams. However, these teams will be divided into two divisions of 12, and a system of promotion and relegation will be implemented starting in 2030.
The top division will encompass teams from the Six Nations and Rugby Championship, including England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Wales, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, along with two additional, as-yet-unnamed teams, likely to include Fiji and Japan.
Each participating country is guaranteed at least six matches during the course of the tournament, culminating in a Grand Final at the end of November to determine the overall champion of the top league. These changes promise to breathe new life into international rugby, enhancing the sport for both players and fans alike.
