Changes announced in the format of the next Rugby World Cup

World Rugby announced today that the next edition of the 2027 World Cup Australia will feature 24 national teams, expanding the quota to four more participants. In this way, the expansion to 24 selected modifies the format of the next World Cup, which will have six groups of four teams, with a round of 16 added before the quarterfinals. Likewise, the top two teams in each group will automatically qualify along with the four best third-placed teams. This will reduce the competition period from seven to six weeks, while encouraging a pace that builds momentum throughout the group stage and respects the same minimum number of rest days between matches as in France 2023.It should be noted that the World Cup will take place between October 1 and November 13, 2027.Bill Beaumont, Commenting on the decision, World Rugby President said: “The decision to expand the 2027 Rugby World Cup to 24 teams is logical and the right thing to do. Backed by a new global calendar that increases certainty and opportunity, we’re focused on raising standards, closing gaps, and creating a show that fans demand to see. With their love of sport and big events, Australia is the perfect place to do just that.”

Original source in Spanish