The action-packed match schedule has been announced!
- Townsville to host eight international teams
- Four thrilling match-ups to be played in Townsville, the only regional location in Queensland
- Blockbuster Friday/Saturday back-to-back fixtures
Townsville is set to play a key role in the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in 2027, with the city to host matches that promise fans a unique blend of fierce competition, festival‑style energy and warm North Queensland hospitality.
Townsville Enterprise, in partnership with Townsville City Council and the Queensland Government, has secured four World Cup matches for the city, showcasing Townsville to a global audience.
Townsville’s Rugby World Cup action begins on Saturday 3rd October with a hard‑fought clash between Georgia and Romania, a contest that could prove crucial in determining which nation progresses to the knockout phase. Fans can expect physicality, intensity and a compelling start to Townsville’s RWC programme.
Then on Friday 9th October, Townsville will host a landmark moment in World Cup Rugby when Chile takes on Hong Kong China, a match that’s set to deliver passion, opportunity and a defining chapter for two emerging rugby nations.
Townsville rounds out its hosting duties with a blockbuster festival weekend on 15–16 October, featuring two back‑to‑back matches and welcoming fans from Tonga, Zimbabwe, Spain, and Canada. With four nations represented and two matches across two days, Townsville will become a global rugby destination as it concludes its pool phase programme.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said, “Townsville will step onto the global sporting stage when we host eight international teams across four matches during the 2027 Rugby World Cup over two weeks.”
“We’re a proud, multicultural city and I know our community will get right behind the teams and supporters coming here from around the world, while we showcase what makes Townsville and North Queensland such a great place to visit and an even better place to live.”
“Major events like this deliver real benefits for our local economy, and they also give our young players and fans the chance to experience a Rugby World Cup match right here in our backyard — that’s something truly special for our city,” Cr Dametto said.
Townsville Enterprise Director Major Events Acquisition, Chelsea Cavanah said, “We are so excited to host four of the Rugby World Cup games right here in Townsville.”
“This a great opportunity to see rising nations compete, with matches promising passionate play and close contests. It’s an honour for Townsville to be one of only two Queensland host cities for this tournament.”
“Events like RWC27 shine a spotlight on Townsville as the Events Capital of the North, elevate our profile as a premier tourism destination, and will deliver millions in real economic benefits for local businesses and our community.”
“We thank Townsville City Council and the State Government for working collaboratively with us to secure these events for our region. Hosting RWC27 games is expected to generate millions of dollars in economic impact for the North Queensland economy.”
"Hosting this event is a strong endorsement of Townsville’s continued growth as a regional destination that consistently delivers world-class events."
The Minister for Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell said, “securing major international rugby events formed a key part of Queensland’s Destination 2045 tourism strategy, designed to attract world-class events and strengthen the state’s reputation as a leading destination for sport and tourism.”
“The fixtures will bring the world’s best rugby nations to Queensland, delivering unforgettable sporting moments for fans and generating $212 million for the state,” Minister Powell said.
“Rugby is one of the most internationally supported sports on the planet – a truly global game, often affectionately called the game they play in heaven – and in 2027 it will be played right here in Brisbane and in Townsville.”
“It’s an outstanding opportunity for Queensland sports fans to experience the passion, skill and drama of Rugby World Cup matches in their own backyard, while welcoming visitors from around Australia and across the globe.”
“As well as the on-field excitement, this competition will deliver enormous economic benefits to both cities with domestic and international visitors driving tourism spending across accommodation, hospitality, transport and local attractions giving a big boost to local businesses and jobs.”
Queensland Country Bank Stadium Venue General Manager, Cameron Jones said, “We’re excited to make our Rugby World Cup debut and welcome eight nations to Queensland Country Bank Stadium next year.”
“It’s great to see Queensland Country Bank Stadium recognised as one of the country’s main sporting destinations and this is another great example of the diversity of content we host here,” Mr Jones said.
The tournament promises world-class sport, unforgettable experiences, and a boost to the city’s tourism and local economy. Fans can look forward to thrilling matches, vibrant fan zones, and the chance to be part of a truly global sporting celebration right here in Townsville.
Fans are encouraged to register for presale tickets ahead of 18 February, ensuring they don’t miss their chance to be part of this once-in-a-generation sporting event.