Rugby World Cup will be heading to Australia and USA
Australia has been confirmed as hosts for the men’s 2027 World Cup as World Rugby mapped out all destination countries for its global events until 2033.
In a first for the sport, the United States has been approved for the 2031 men's and 2033 women's tournaments in the hope of growing interest in America.
England will host the 2025 women’s World Cup and four years later the women’s tournament will head to Australia, it was agreed at a council meeting in Dublin yesterday morning.
World Rugby has announced its next five tournaments to provide "hosting certainty" after the race to land the 2023 men's World Cup was won by France ahead of South Africa in contentious circumstances.
The game's global governing body has also approved a "new model that will see World Rugby form partnerships with national unions and governments to establish a local delivery structure in each nation".
Australia staged the successful 2003 men's event that was won by England and are seen as a safe pair of hands for 2027 and 2029, while America's time in the spotlight early next decade offers the platform to broaden the sport's appeal in new markets.
"USA Rugby will now venture into a new era and ensure the sport's most treasured event is a springboard for creating lasting, sustainable enthusiasm and passion for rugby from coast to coast," USA Rugby chief executive Ross Young said.
Speaking about England being awarded the 2025 tournament, RFU chief operating officer Sue Day said: "We are thrilled to be hosting the 2025 women's World Cup - it will be incredible.
"As we have seen from other home World Cups in cricket, hockey and netball, a World Cup will further advance all women's sport. The tournament will also deliver significant economic benefits across the country."
The Rugby Football Union forecasts that it will provide a £156 million uplift to the UK economy and has set the target of organising the best attended women's World Cup in history.
Pool games will be held across the country amid the introduction of a new 16-team format, with Twickenham hosting the final.