It may be five years away, but preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup is well underway.
Here's everything you need to know about the selection of the host country.
Will Australia host the 2027 Rugby World Cup?
Australia is currently in the box seat to secure the hosting rights for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
In a show of support, the Australian government has made a pledge in their latest budget to fund the bidding and delivery process.
Rugby Australia has also been working exclusively with World Rugby to design the tournament until then since being announced as the preferred candidate late last year.
Australia has also been announced as the preferred candidate for the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup, in a clear signal of intent from rugby administrators in the country.
When is the host announcement?
The official vote for the host country will take place on May 12.
Ahead of the announcement, Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan noted what a unique occasion this is for rugby in Australia.
“Hosting two Rugby World Cups is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Australia and the rugby community and all aspirational future Wallaroos and Wallabies who will shortly be kicking off their season across the country,” McLennan said.
“The fact we have reached this stage in the process as preferred candidate for both the men’s and women’s tournaments is something the Australian rugby community should be incredibly proud of.”
Who is hosting the 2023 tournament?
France won the hosting rights to the 2023 Rugby World Cup, which will be the tenth edition of the tournament.
It is scheduled to take place from 8 September to 28 October 2023, held across nine venues in the country.
