As it stands, Russia will not be permitted to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, following their exclusion from the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
World Rugby suspended Russia from international and cross-border competitions due to the country’s invasion of Ukraine.
This suspension means Russia will once again be barred from participating in qualification matches for the next major men’s tournament.
In 2020, the Russian Rugby Federation announced that the country was preparing a bid to host the 2027 World Cup, with support from President Vladimir Putin.
Russia had shown interest in hosting the tournament, planning to use the stadiums from the 2018 FIFA World Cup as venues. The Russian Rugby Federation even established a committee to oversee the application process.
The RRF stated that consultations were held with the Ministry of Sports, and detailed information and criteria for the bid were expected by the end of the year. The initiative had received backing from the Russian president.
However, following the invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s bid to host the tournament was abruptly halted.
England set to play Wales at expanded 2027 Rugby World Cup
Rugby World Cup 2027 is set to be hosted in Australia, marking the eleventh edition of the Men’s Rugby World Cup and the third time it will take place in Australia. The country previously co-hosted the inaugural Rugby World Cup with New Zealand in 1987 and served as the sole host in 2003.
With the current World Rankings in mind, let’s delve into how the 2027 Rugby World Cup will shape up via Rugby Centre.
2027 Rugby World Cup draw (Current rankings)
POOL A
- South Africa
- Argentina
- Samoa
- Spain
POOL B
- Ireland
- Australia
- Georgia
- Romania
