Australia’s record-breaking rugby crowds have strengthened confidence that the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup will deliver a memorable tournament, with former All Blacks Sevens star Karl Te Nana predicting huge support when the world’s best teams arrive next year.
More than 73,000 spectators attended the second Bledisloe Cup Test of 2026 at Accor Stadium in Sydney, where New Zealand defeated Australia 43–21. Beauden Barrett and Josh Moorby each scored two tries in the match, which attracted the largest Bledisloe Cup crowd at the venue in a decade.
The stadium is also set to play a major role in the 2027 World Cup, hosting two quarter-finals, both semi-finals, the bronze final and the tournament decider.
Speaking on Stan Sport’s Between Two Posts, Te Nana said the atmosphere in Sydney offered a glimpse of what supporters could expect when Australia hosts the global tournament.
He said Australia had a proven ability to stage major sporting events and expected strong attendance, particularly with international supporters travelling to follow their national teams.
The upcoming tournament will also feature a historic clash between Australia and New Zealand during the pool stage, scheduled for Stadium Australia. England and Wales will meet at the same venue in another highly anticipated pool match.
The tournament begins on October 1, 2027, when Australia faces World Cup debutants Hong Kong China in Perth. New Zealand will take on Chile the following day.
World Rugby has reported that 1.3 million tickets have already been purchased by fans from 164 countries, underlining the international interest ahead of the competition.
For the first time, the expanded tournament will feature 24 teams competing across 52 matches in seven Australian host cities: Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Melbourne, Townsville, Brisbane and Sydney. Around 250,000 international visitors are expected to travel to Australia for the six-week event.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said the tournament would mark the competition’s 40th anniversary while aiming to deliver its biggest and most accessible celebration of the sport.
With strong ticket demand, major international rivalries and large crowds already turning out for rugby in Australia, anticipation is building for what organisers hope will be a landmark World Cup.
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