Sydney Secures 2027 Rugby World Cup Final, Melbourne Snags Matches in Eleventh-Hour Agreement

Sydney has emerged as the standout victor after being designated as the host city for the final of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Meanwhile, Melbourne has managed to avert the embarrassment of missing out completely by securing a last-minute agreement to host nine matches of one of the most significant and prestigious events in global sport.

Officials from World Rugby and Rugby Australia convened on Thursday to announce the selected host cities, with Sydney scoring a significant achievement, set to host the tournament’s four most crucial matches – the final, the bronze medal showdown, and the two semi-finals. Additionally, Sydney will host two out of the four quarter-finals, as well as two round of 16 clashes and five pool games.

Just weeks earlier, Melbourne appeared unlikely to host any matches after the Victorian government stepped back from its initial bid for the final and semi-finals. However, the city hastily returned to the negotiating table at the last moment, as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, ending up with seven pool matches and two round of 16 games.

Initially, the Victorian government sought to secure the marquee matches of the World Cup, aiming to break attendance records for the final by hosting it and a semi-final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

However, it was reported that the NSW government’s proposal was more financially appealing, which led to the Victorian administration withdrawing from the negotiations until a last-minute change of heart, spurred by the fear of effectively losing out entirely for a city that often considers itself the sporting and event capital of Australia.

Rugby Australia’s controversial decision to cut the Melbourne Rebels from the Super Rugby competition also influenced Victoria’s approach to the bid process; however, given that World Rugby, not Rugby Australia, manages the World Cup, feelings of revenge may have been misplaced.

Brisbane has also secured a significant role, winning hosting rights for six pool matches, two round of 16 fixtures, and two quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Perth, home to the Western Force, managed to land five pool games and two round of 16 encounters, while Adelaide, Newcastle, and Townsville will each host pool matches.

The most significant absence comes from Canberra, where the ACT government opted not to participate in the bid process, even though it boasts the Brumbies, Australia’s most successful Super Rugby franchise.

Brett Robinson, chair of World Rugby and a former Wallaby himself, expressed his delight at the strong interest from Australia’s major cities regarding the tournament.

“The selection of these outstanding host cities highlights our goal to bring the Rugby World Cup to as many Australians as possible, maximising the tournament’s positive influence and sporting legacy in all the host communities,” he remarked.

Phil Waugh, Rugby Australia’s CEO, described the World Cup as “a monumental opportunity for our nation.”

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Robinson added, “The economic benefits, the energising of the fan base, and the inspiration for the next generation of players mean that RWC 2027 will leave a legacy that will resonate in Australia for many years ahead.”

This World Cup will be held during a critical two-year period for Aussie rugby, aligning with the Lions Tour in June this year, providing a significant opportunity for the sport to regroup financially and prepare for greater competition in the burgeoning sports market as we advance into the next decade.

While the host cities have now been finalised, specific venues within each city still need to be determined, though it’s almost assured that Sydney’s Accor Stadium will host the final and semi-finals.