Warren Gatland set for shock return to international rugby ahead of 2027 World Cup

 Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

The former Wales and British & Irish Lions boss linked up with the Montevideo club in 2025 for a consultancy period, working closely with head coach Ivo Dugonjic during their Super Rugby Americas campaign.

Gatland’s influence was quickly felt as Peñarol fine-tuned their game, with players and staff alike praising his professionalism and the intensity he brought to training.

Having wrapped up his time with the club, RUCK understands that Gatland is now set to shift focus towards Los Teros themselves.

Uruguay have already sealed their place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, and Gatland’s involvement would strengthen preparations as they look to build on their impressive showing in France 2023.

During his stint in Montevideo, Gatland expressed admiration for the passion and humility of Uruguayan rugby, highlighting the remarkable progress the nation has made over the past decade.

His wealth of international experience — from Six Nations titles to British & Irish Lions tours — makes him an invaluable addition as Uruguay aim to bridge the gap with Tier One opposition.

For Uruguay, Gatland’s continued input could be transformative; for the 61-year-old Kiwi, it’s an opportunity to lend his expertise to one of world rugby’s fastest-rising nations. After a glittering career in the north, the next chapter of Gatland’s story looks set to unfold in the southern hemisphere once more.

Organisers have confirmed the Rugby World Cup Draw will take place on 3 December 2025 – and it’s set to be a blockbuster

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: England should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: France's depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: