In last Tuesday’s federal budget, the Morrison government promised to assist Rugby Australia’s campaign for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
This assistance will take the shape of a financial commitment to RA’s legacy programme, tournament operating costs, and in-kind contributions.
It was a watershed event for the bid team and a huge boost to Australia’s unrivalled campaign. Here, we answer the pressing questions that have arisen as a result of this significant breakthrough.
No, but we’re getting close. “We are 20 points up with one minute to play,” said Wallabies great and bid boss Phil Kearns.
The World Cup will not be formally awarded until the World Rugby Council meets on May 12, with an announcement expected the following day.
If everything goes as planned, World Rugby’s Rugby World Cup board will make a final recommendation that Australia be awarded hosting rights, which will be confirmed by the governing body’s powerful executive committee before being sent to the full council, where all members will vote on whether to accept the recommendation.
“A World Cup on our shores will be for all Australians and will provide a multi-billion dollar boost to the economy.”
“It would also attract 30,000 new participants to the game. This is an unrivalled opportunity to support the Australian economy and grow the game of Rugby in Australia and the Pacific.”
As a result, Rugby Australia appears to be set to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with a’significant development’ due to be unveiled this Monday.
Australia’s hosting now appears to be a formality, with the Australian government publicly giving their financial clout to the tournament this week, having already been chosen the ‘preferred contender.’
The Australian government budget indicated that the country’s current campaign for the men’s tournament will be expanded to include a bid for the women’s Rugby World Cup in 2029. It is in addition to the $9.8 million in funds allocated by the Australian Government to support Rugby Australia’s bid activities.
The union, despite their financial challenges, has been presented as a safe pair of hands for the tournament, which they last hosted in 2003.
“We’re not talking to anybody else about Rugby World Cup hosting in 2031 and 2033,” World Rugby Chief Alan Gilpin said.
“It doesn’t mean it’s a done deal … but it means that we strategically believe we can deliver the right outcomes with this hosting plan.”
“So [Australia] are our preferred candidate for 2027 and we expect to be in good shape in the discussions with them.”
