(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Asia Rugby Confirms Final Schedule for Emirates Men’s Championship 2026
Asia Rugby has officially announced the final match schedule for the Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship 2026, the region’s top-tier men’s 15-a-side rugby competition and part of the qualification pathway for future Rugby World Cup cycles.
The revised fixtures come after changes to the tournament caused by ongoing regional challenges, which affected logistics and led to adjustments in hosting arrangements. As a result, the United Arab Emirates national rugby union team will not participate in this year’s edition.
Officials from Asia Rugby said the tournament structure was carefully reviewed in coordination with participating unions to ensure the competition could proceed successfully despite disruptions.
Tournament Overview
The 2026 championship will feature three teams:
- Hong Kong China national rugby union team
- Korea national rugby union team
- Sri Lanka national rugby union team
Asia Rugby officials said the competition remains an important platform for developing elite-level rugby in Asia and maintaining international competitiveness across the region.
Final Match Schedule
Match 1
Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong China
Racecourse Stadium, Colombo (Sri Lanka)
24 May 2026 – Kick-off 15:00 local time
Match 2
Hong Kong China vs Korea
Hong Kong Football Club, Hong Kong SAR
7 June 2026 – Kick-off 16:30 local time
Match 3
Korea vs Sri Lanka
Namdong Asiad Rugby Stadium, Incheon (Korea)
13 June 2026 – Kick-off 15:00 local time
Asia Rugby Statement
Asia Rugby said it worked closely with member unions to manage scheduling challenges and ensure all teams had a fair and competitive structure.
Despite disruptions, officials emphasized that the tournament will continue as planned with strong participation and competitive fixtures.
Fans will be able to follow updates, results, and coverage through Asia Rugby’s official digital platforms, with broadcast details to be announced ahead of the matches.
