ITV has announced it will be the exclusive UK broadcaster for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, scheduled to take place in Australia. This agreement extends the broadcaster's long-standing relationship with the tournament, marking its tenth successive edition of coverage since it began showing the men's World Cup in 1991. The deal guarantees that all 52 matches of the competition, which will feature 24 teams and incorporate a last-16 knockout stage, will be broadcast live to audiences across the United Kingdom.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm by World Rugby, with chief executive Alan Gilpin highlighting the significance of the partnership. Gilpin stated that the agreement is more than just a renewed deal with a trusted partner; it represents a clear intention to ensure that everyone in the UK has the opportunity to experience and be inspired by the iconic sporting event, its drama, action, and personalities. This commitment underlines the importance of making major international rugby accessible to a broad audience.
ITV's continued investment in rugby broadcasting extends beyond the World Cup. The broadcaster has previously secured the rights for the 2026 and 2028 editions of the new Nations Championship. Furthermore, it holds a shared-rights deal with BBC Sport for the majority of Six Nations fixtures, a partnership set to continue up to and including the 2029 tournament. This comprehensive coverage means that every England men's game currently scheduled until summer 2029 will be shown on ITV. Similarly, matches involving Scotland, Wales, and Ireland will also be available free-to-air in the UK during the same period.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup is set to commence on 1 October next year, with host nation Australia scheduled to play Hong Kong in the opening fixture. This highly anticipated tournament will bring together top rugby nations from around the globe, culminating in the crowning of a new world champion. The expanded format, featuring 24 teams, promises an even wider array of international competition and compelling narratives for fans to follow.
The decision to continue with ITV as the primary broadcaster for such a significant event reflects the established success of their previous collaborations and their ability to deliver extensive coverage. For UK rugby fans, this continuity ensures familiarity and reliable access to both domestic and international rugby spectacles for the foreseeable future.