Rugby Championship 2026 Cancelled
The 2025 Rugby Championship is one of the closest in years, with Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina all still in the running after four rounds. The competition has delivered intensity, unpredictability and world-class rugby.
But there will be no edition in 2026. Instead, the southern hemisphere giants are taking a break from the annual tournament, with New Zealand and South Africa embarking on a major tour. This decision has raised questions about the future of the Rugby Championship, the plans for Australia and Argentina, and how all of this fits into the new Nations Championship.
What is Happening to the Rugby Championship in 2026?
The Rugby Championship will not take place in 2026. This does not mean the SANZAAR nations will avoid each other completely, but the traditional annual contest is being paused. The focus will instead be on a landmark series between the All Blacks and the Springboks.
The All Blacks Tour of South Africa
New Zealand are preparing for their first full tour of South Africa since 1996. This has been described as the “Greatest Rivalry” and is expected to mirror the British & Irish Lions model. The tour will include matches against the four United Rugby Championship (URC) franchises, South Africa A, and three blockbuster Test matches against the Springboks.
There is also discussion of a fourth Test at a neutral venue, possibly in London or North America, to expand the global reach of the series. The tour is set to generate massive financial returns and attract significant fan interest. A reciprocal tour in New Zealand is expected in 2030.
Why Are South Africa and New Zealand Doing This?
The Rugby Championship has produced quality rugby, but it lacks the heritage and travelling fan culture of the Six Nations. Logistical challenges, including long-distance travel and unfavourable time zones, have also limited its global impact.
For the All Blacks and Springboks, the head-to-head rivalry carries more weight than the tournament itself. Between them, they have won five of the last six World Cups, and adding a third deciding Test in a tour format provides greater sporting and financial appeal.
Financial considerations have also played a role. Inspired by the commercial success of the Lions tours, both unions are aiming to capitalise on their status to generate higher revenues.
What About Australia and Argentina?
While the Wallabies and Pumas will not feature in the Rugby Championship in 2026, they are not left idle. Reports suggest Australia are planning to host seven Tests, including matches against northern hemisphere opposition as part of the inaugural Nations Championship. Additional one-off fixtures such as the Bledisloe Cup and Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate have also been mentioned.
Argentina, meanwhile, are expected to host the Wallabies for two Tests and South Africa for one. However, there are currently no confirmed plans for them to face New Zealand in 2026.
The Nations Championship and Scheduling
The new Nations Championship will debut in 2026. It will run every two years in even-numbered seasons, with Europe’s Six Nations sides competing against SANZAAR nations, Japan and Fiji. Teams will play in a league format, and the top sides from each conference will contest a final.
The structure requires July and November international windows, leaving little room for a full Rugby Championship. As a result, the All Blacks’ tour of South Africa is expected to take place immediately after the July Nations Championship block.
When Will the Rugby Championship Return?
There is no official date for the return of the Rugby Championship. A full version is possible in 2027, as the World Cup in Australia will start later than usual. However, some reports suggest the tournament could shift to a biennial format, meaning the next traditional Championship might not happen until 2029.
The Rugby Championship will take a pause in 2026, making way for a historic All Blacks tour of South Africa. While this creates new opportunities for the game’s greatest rivalry, it also raises questions about the future structure of southern hemisphere rugby. With Australia and Argentina turning their focus to the Nations Championship, the rugby calendar is entering a new era of global competition.
FAQs
Q1. Why is there no Rugby Championship in 2026?
A. Because South Africa and New Zealand are staging a major tour, leaving no room in the calendar.
Q2. What is the Greatest Rivalry tour?
A. It is the All Blacks’ first tour of South Africa since 1996, featuring multiple matches including three or four Test clashes.
Q3. What will Australia do in 2026?
A. They are expected to host several Tests, including matches against northern hemisphere sides in the Nations Championship.
Q4. What will Argentina do in 2026?
A. The Pumas will host Tests against Australia and South Africa, but not New Zealand.
Q5. When will the Rugby Championship return?
A. The earliest likely return is 2027, though it could be delayed further if the tournament becomes biennial.
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