Three countries banned from Rugby World Cup 2027

While the expanded 24-team tournament has opened the door for more emerging rugby nations, three countries were barred from the qualification process altogether due to sanctions or governance issues.

Here's a look at the three unions that were unable to book their place at rugby's biggest tournament.

Russia remain suspended from international rugby following World Rugby's decision in 2022 after the country's invasion of Ukraine.

The suspension applies to both the national team and Russian clubs, meaning the Bears were unable to enter the Rugby Europe Championship – Europe's qualification route for Rugby World Cup 2027.

Russia have previously appeared at two Rugby World Cups, in 2011 and 2019, and would likely have been contenders for one of Europe's qualification places had they been eligible.

Belarus were also suspended by World Rugby as part of the sanctions introduced following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Although Belarus have never qualified for a Rugby World Cup, the suspension meant they were unable to participate in any stage of the qualification process.

Like Russia, they remain excluded from international rugby until World Rugby lifts the sanctions.

Paraguay's absence came for very different reasons.

The South American nation was ruled ineligible to participate in Rugby World Cup qualification because its national union failed to meet governance and compliance requirements set by World Rugby.

While Paraguay have never qualified for a Rugby World Cup, the expanded 24-team format represented their best chance yet of reaching the sport's biggest stage.

Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.

The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:

Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!