ITV has announced it has successfully secured the exclusive UK broadcasting rights for the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup, reaffirming its status as the primary free-to-air home for rugby union in the United Kingdom. The agreement ensures that all 52 matches of the expanded tournament, set to take place in Australia, will be available across ITV's channels, including ITV1, ITVX, and ITV Sport's YouTube platform.
The broadcaster, a long-term partner of World Rugby since 1991, is understood to have faced significant competition for these highly coveted rights, notably from the BBC. The BBC had previously aired the Women's Rugby World Cup last year, signalling a potential bid for broader rugby coverage. However, ITV's renewed agreement solidifies its comprehensive portfolio of rugby union content.
Beyond the flagship World Cup event, ITV's extensive rugby coverage continues to grow. The deal also encompasses the rights to every game from the forthcoming Nations Championship in both 2026 and 2028. Furthermore, the broadcaster retains the rights to a majority of the men's Six Nations games, cementing its dominant position in the sport's broadcast landscape.
Neil Sloane, ITV's director of sport, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, stating, "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." He added that the partnership further secures ITV's commitment to rugby coverage across its various platforms.
Crucially for England fans, the new deal also includes coverage of all England men’s international warm-up games leading up to the 2027 World Cup. This comprehensive package ensures that every England men's international fixture through the tournament will be broadcast on ITV, providing uninterrupted access for supporters across the nation.