A Tournament to Unite the Rugby World

A groundbreaking new international rugby competition, the Nations Championship, is set to launch in July 2026, bringing together the twelve highest-ranked national teams in a unique hemispheric showdown. The tournament promises to redefine the international rugby calendar and elevate rivalries on a global stage.

How the Nations Championship Works

The Nations Championship will divide teams into two groups of six: one representing the Northern Hemisphere (England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales) and the other the Southern Hemisphere (Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Fiji, and Japan). Each team will compete in six fixtures – three in July and three in November – against opponents from the opposing hemisphere.

Match points earned throughout the July and November series will determine the standings within each hemisphere, ultimately shaping the schedule for the inaugural Finals Weekend in London.

The Road to London: A Dramatic Finals Weekend

The tournament will culminate in a first-of-its-kind Finals Weekend at Allianz Stadium in London. This event will feature a series of double-headers over three days, with the top-ranked teams from each hemisphere battling for the championship title. Every match matters, as teams also compete to determine which hemisphere reigns supreme.

“The Nations Championship will stand alongside the worlds best sport and entertainment tournaments, and the confirmation of venues hosting fixtures in July highlights the intention to put the best rugby teams and players in the sport in front of global fans, on some of the most iconic stages in world sport.”

Tom Harrison, CEO of Six Nations Rugby

Iconic Venues to Host the Southern Series

The inaugural ‘Southern Series’ of fixtures will be held across a range of iconic global venues. The first-ever Nations Championship match will take place at a new stadium in Christchurch, New Zealand, featuring a clash between the All Blacks and France. Other confirmed venues include Ellis Park in Johannesburg, Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Eden Park in Auckland, and the National Stadium in Tokyo. Neutral venues in the UK, including a new stadium in Liverpool, will host Fiji’s ‘home’ fixtures, and Japan will host Ireland at a Southern Hemisphere neutral venue.

Ticket Information

Fans will have the opportunity to secure tickets to the Nations Championship Finals Weekend through a pre-sale window opening on February 25th, followed by a general sale launch on March 11th. Interested fans can register their interest here.

Did You Know?

The Nations Championship is designed to be held biennially, in years that do not feature a Men’s Rugby World Cup or a British & Irish Lions tour.

FAQ

• What is the Nations Championship? A new 12-team rugby tournament pitting Northern and Southern Hemisphere teams against each other.
• When does it start? July 2026.
• Where are the Finals? Allianz Stadium, London.
• How can I get tickets? Register for the pre-sale on February 25th or the general sale on March 11th.