BBC misses out again as UK broadcaster for 2027 Rugby World Cup is confirmed

Monday, 27 July 2026 at 09:10

bySteven Smith

ITV will remain the home of the Rugby World Cup in the UK after agreeing a landmark new broadcasting deal with World Rugby for the 2027 tournament in Australia.

The agreement means every match of the expanded Men's Rugby World Cup will be shown live and free-to-air across ITV1, ITVX and ITV Sport's digital platforms, ensuring UK fans won't miss a moment of rugby's biggest event.

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Every match live on ITV

The 2027 Rugby World Cup will run from 1 October to 13 November and will be the biggest tournament in the competition's history.

For the first time, 24 nations will compete for the Webb Ellis Cup, up from 20 teams, with the introduction of a Round of 16 increasing the tournament to 52 matches.

All 52 fixtures will be broadcast live on ITV, with highlights, analysis and digital content also available throughout the six-week competition.

The expanded format is expected to give emerging rugby nations more opportunities on the global stage while creating even more high-stakes knockout rugby.

ITV strengthens its rugby portfolio

The deal extends ITV's long-standing partnership with World Rugby, having broadcast every Rugby World Cup since 1991.

ITV Director of Sport Niall Sloane said:

"This is a monumental deal for audiences across the UK delivering coverage on ITV of the biggest rugby tournament.

"We've enjoyed a long-standing partnership with World Rugby and this will continue to thrive. This partnership further secures ITV as the home of rugby, adding to our extensive portfolio and commitment of rugby coverage across ITV1, ITVX and ITV Sport YouTube."

World Rugby hails landmark agreement

World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin believes keeping the tournament free-to-air is vital for the sport's continued growth.

He said:

"This is much more than a new agreement with a trusted partner, it is a statement of intent to ensure that everyone in the UK can experience and be inspired by one of the world's iconic sporting events.

"Australia 2027 will be a landmark moment for rugby. With 24 teams, more matches, more stories and more opportunities for emerging nations to shine on the world stage, the tournament will power a new era for the game."

Biggest Rugby World Cup ever

Australia 2027 will mark the 40th anniversary of the Rugby World Cup and promises to be the largest edition ever staged.

The tournament will feature seven host cities, a record 52 matches and millions of travelling supporters, with organisers hoping the expanded competition will introduce rugby to new audiences while maintaining the tournament's place as one of world sport's premier events.

For UK supporters, the biggest takeaway is simple: every match of Rugby World Cup 2027 will once again be available live on ITV.

2027 Rugby World Cup draw:

Pool A

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

Pool B

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Pool C

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Pool D

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

Pool E

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

Pool F

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!