Australia to Open Rugby World Cup Against Hong Kong as Fixtures Are Revealed

Hosts Australia will kick off the Rugby World Cup next year against debutants Hong Kong, organisers confirmed on Tuesday, marking a historic opening to the global tournament.

The opening match will take place on October 1 at Perth Stadium, which has a capacity of 60,000. Two-time champions Australia will face Hong Kong in Pool A, beginning the tournament on home soil.

One of the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage will see the Wallabies clash with three-time champions New Zealand on October 9 at Stadium Australia in Sydney. The All Blacks will play Chile a week earlier before meeting Australia.

Defending champions South Africa will begin their title defence against Italy on October 3, followed by matches against Georgia and Romania in the days that follow, as they aim for an unprecedented third consecutive World Cup title.

Australia captain Harry Wilson said opening against Hong Kong would be a special moment, particularly as it marks Hong Kong’s first appearance at a Rugby World Cup. He also highlighted the significance of facing New Zealand in Sydney and playing Chile in his hometown of Brisbane.

Other major group-stage clashes include Ireland vs Scotland on October 10 and England vs Wales on October 16. The tournament will feature 24 teams for the first time, expanding its global reach.

Zimbabwe will return to the World Cup after more than three decades, opening against Wales on October 2 in Adelaide, while France, led by Antoine Dupont, will face the United States in Melbourne on the same day.

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson described the fixture announcement as the beginning of the Rugby World Cup 2027 journey, noting that the schedule balances player welfare, fan engagement, and global appeal.

To date, only four nations have lifted the Rugby World Cup trophy: South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and England.