Namibia’s long-standing presence at the Rugby World Cup has come to an end, as they failed to qualify for the 2027 tournament in Australia.
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Since their debut in 1999, Namibia had appeared in every edition, building a reputation as Africa’s consistent second force behind South Africa.
Their campaign unraveled in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup final, where they suffered a narrow defeat to Zimbabwe, missing out on automatic qualification. In the final repechage tournament, hopes faded further after unexpected losses to Belgium and Samoa, leaving Namibia unable to secure a spot despite one final victory.
This marks a significant shift in African rugby, with Zimbabwe returning to the global stage after decades away. For Namibia, the failure highlights increasing competition from emerging nations and the need for renewal.
After nearly three decades of consistency, they now face the challenge of rebuilding and reclaiming their place among rugby’s elite.
See the full 2027 World Cup draw below.
2027 Rugby World Cup Draw & Fixtures (UK times & Stadiums)
All kick-off times are UK local time (BST).
Pool A – New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Hong Kong China
A heavyweight trans-Tasman showdown headlines this pool, with New Zealand and hosts Australia expected to battle for top spot. Chile and Hong Kong China will be targeting statement wins as they look to upset the established order.
- Australia v Hong Kong China | 1 Oct | 11:45 | Perth Stadium, Perth
- New Zealand v Chile | 2 Oct | 06:15 | Perth Stadium, Perth
- Australia v New Zealand | 9 Oct | 07:10 | Stadium Australia, Sydney
- Chile v Hong Kong China | 9 Oct | 11:15 | North Queensland Stadium, Townsville
- New Zealand v Hong Kong China | 15 Oct | 07:15 | Docklands Stadium, Melbourne
- Australia v Chile | 16 Oct | 06:10 | Brisbane Stadium, Brisbane
Pool B – South Africa, Italy, Georgia, Romania
Defending champions South Africa will start as clear favourites, but Italy’s steady rise and Georgia’s formidable forward power could make this pool tighter than expected. Romania will aim to rediscover their traditional edge on the world stage.
- South Africa v Italy | 3 Oct | 05:45 | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Georgia v Romania | 3 Oct | 11:15 | North Queensland Stadium, Townsville
- South Africa v Georgia | 10 Oct | 07:45 | Brisbane Stadium, Brisbane
- Italy v Romania | 11 Oct | 09:45 | Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney
- Italy v Georgia | 17 Oct | 02:15 | Newcastle Stadium, Newcastle
- South Africa v Romania | 17 Oct | 12:15 | Perth Stadium, Perth
Pool C – Argentina, Fiji, Spain, Canada
This pool promises flair and unpredictability. Argentina and Fiji bring attacking firepower, while Spain continue their steady climb in Europe. Canada will look to re-establish themselves as a genuine World Cup force.
- Fiji v Spain | 4 Oct | 04:15 | Newcastle Stadium, Newcastle
- Argentina v Canada | 4 Oct | 09:45 | Brisbane Stadium, Brisbane
- Fiji v Canada | 10 Oct | 02:45 | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Argentina v Spain | 10 Oct | 05:15 | Docklands Stadium, Melbourne
- Argentina v Fiji | 16 Oct | 03:45 | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Spain v Canada | 16 Oct | 11:15 | North Queensland Stadium, Townsville
