Perth to Shine on Global Stage as Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 Draw Unveils Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Hong Kong China

Published on December 4, 2025

The announcement of the official Men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027 draw has generated a surge of anticipation for sports tourism across the country. The match-ups for all six pools were unveiled, creating a roadmap for fans and international visitors eager to experience world-class rugby while exploring Australia’s sporting destinations. Pool A features Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and Hong Kong China, promising intense competition and drawing global attention to Perth, the host city of the tournament’s opening match.

Perth’s inclusion as a premier host city provides a unique opportunity to boost tourism and highlight Western Australia as a global sporting hub. The city will host seven matches, including the opening clash, four additional pool games, and two rounds of the round of 16. This event is set to attract visitors from around the world, supporting local businesses, accommodation providers, and tourism operators.

Pool A: A Global Rugby Showcase

Pool A features Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and Hong Kong China, setting the stage for a compelling mix of rugby talent and international engagement. New Zealand, three-time Men’s Rugby World Cup winners, will look to build on their runner-up finish in France 2023. Chile will make its second consecutive appearance, following a strong debut in 2023, while Hong Kong China enters the tournament for the first time after winning the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship. This historic qualification makes Hong Kong China only the second Asian team to compete, highlighting rugby’s growing global reach and creating new opportunities for sports tourism in Asia-Pacific markets.

The presence of these nations ensures that Perth will see diverse fan groups traveling internationally, driving economic activity in hotels, restaurants, attractions, and event-related services. This influx of tourists not only strengthens the local economy but also enhances Australia’s reputation as a destination capable of hosting major international sporting events.

Perth: Driving Sports Tourism Growth

Perth’s role as a host city underscores the strategic integration of sports tourism and economic development. By hosting seven key matches, the city will welcome thousands of visitors who will engage with local businesses, restaurants, and cultural experiences. The Cook Government, in partnership with Tourism WA, has emphasized the significance of sports tourism as a driver of economic diversification, local job creation, and long-term visitor growth.

The city’s proven capacity to host high-profile events, including the HSBC SVNS in 2025, the Wallabies versus Springboks in 2024, the British and Irish Lions Tour in 2025, and the Australian-exclusive Bledisloe Cup in 2025, ensures that Perth is equipped to deliver exceptional visitor experiences. These events have helped position Western Australia as a hub for both domestic and international rugby fans, creating lasting sports tourism opportunities.

Legacy Programs and Community Impact

The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is being used as a platform to drive long-term sports tourism and community engagement initiatives. The Cook Government has invested in infrastructure upgrades at local sporting clubs and community rugby programs, ensuring world-class training facilities for competing teams while also providing ongoing benefits for local athletes.

These initiatives encourage visitors to explore beyond match venues, enhancing regional tourism experiences. Fans attending matches are expected to engage with nearby attractions, coastal towns, and cultural events, generating broader economic benefits for Western Australia. This approach illustrates how major sporting events can create sustainable tourism growth while reinforcing a destination’s international profile.

Tournament Structure and Global Significance

The 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup will feature 24 teams across six pools, with each team competing in three rounds before advancing to knockout stages. Held every four years, the tournament is recognized as the most prestigious event in rugby union and ranks as the third-largest sporting event worldwide, behind only the Summer Olympics and the Men’s FIFA World Cup.

Perth’s hosting of seven matches ensures the city becomes a focal point for sports tourism, attracting international media coverage, fan travel, and global attention. Match schedules, set to be released in early 2026, will allow tourism operators to plan packages and promotions to maximize visitor engagement during the tournament.

Economic and Tourism Benefits

The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 represents a significant opportunity to boost tourism across Western Australia. Large-scale international events like this stimulate accommodation bookings, restaurant dining, transportation, and local attractions, while providing a platform to showcase Western Australia’s unique cultural and natural assets.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby emphasized that hosting the opening match positions Perth in the global spotlight, reinforcing the State’s reputation as a destination for world-class sporting events. Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti highlighted the economic and tourism advantages of the tournament, noting that thousands of international visitors will explore the region, supporting local businesses and enhancing community engagement.

Conclusion

The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 draw has set the stage for a transformative sports tourism moment in Australia. Pool A match-ups featuring Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and Hong Kong China promise thrilling competition, while Perth’s seven hosted matches position the city as a premier destination for global rugby fans.

Through strategic government investment, community legacy programs, and world-class facilities, Western Australia is poised to maximize the tourism, economic, and cultural benefits of the tournament. The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will not only deliver unforgettable sporting moments but also strengthen Australia’s reputation as a leading international sports tourism destination.