ITV Secures Exclusive UK Broadcasting Rights for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
World Rugby and ITV have announced a new broadcasting agreement that will make ITV the exclusive UK broadcast partner for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027, ensuring comprehensive live coverage of the tournament for audiences across the United Kingdom.
Under the agreement, ITV will broadcast all 52 matches of the tournament, which will be held in Australia from October 1 to November 13, 2027. Coverage will be available across ITV1, ITVX, and ITV Sport’s digital platforms, including highlights, expert analysis, and additional online content.
Expanded Tournament Format
The 2027 Rugby World Cup will introduce the tournament’s largest format to date, featuring 24 participating teams, up from previous editions. The competition will also include a Round of 16 for the first time and will be played across seven host cities in Australia.
World Rugby says the expanded format is designed to provide more opportunities for emerging rugby nations while increasing global participation and fan engagement.
ITV to Continue Long-Standing Rugby World Cup Coverage
The agreement extends ITV’s long association with the Rugby World Cup, with the broadcaster having televised the tournament in the UK since 1991.
ITV Director of Sport Niall Sloane said the partnership reflects the broadcaster’s continued commitment to rugby and will provide fans with extensive tournament coverage across television and streaming platforms.
World Rugby Highlights Accessibility
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said the agreement will help ensure that rugby’s biggest international tournament remains widely accessible to UK audiences.
He added that the expanded competition in Australia will mark an important milestone for the sport by featuring more teams, additional matches, and greater opportunities for nations to compete on the global stage.
Building on Rugby World Cup 2023
ITV previously broadcast every match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, offering live coverage, analysis, expert commentary, and digital content throughout the tournament.
For the 2027 edition, the broadcaster plans to deliver similar comprehensive coverage, allowing viewers to follow every match and key tournament moment across its television and online services.
About the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027
The Men’s Rugby World Cup is held every four years and is regarded as the premier international competition in rugby union.
The 2027 tournament will take place over six weeks, from October 1 to November 13, with Australia hosting teams and supporters from around the world. Organizers expect the expanded competition to promote the sport’s continued growth, increase global participation, and introduce rugby to new audiences.
World Rugby has also stated that revenue generated from the tournament will be reinvested into the development of rugby across its member unions and regional associations worldwide.
