ITV has officially committed to broadcasting the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. This deal marks the tenth consecutive time the network has covered the tournament. Viewers will have access to all 52 live matches, featuring an expanded format of 24 teams that includes a round-of-16 stage.
World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin stated that the agreement reflects a commitment to making this major sporting event accessible to the entire UK audience. ITV has been the home for men’s Rugby World Cups since 1991. The broadcaster also holds rights for the upcoming 2026 and 2028 Nations Championship games, along with most Six Nations matches through 2029 in partnership with BBC Sport.
Furthermore, ITV will air all scheduled England men’s international games until the summer of 2029. Matches involving the national teams of Scotland, Wales, and Ireland will remain available on free-to-air television across the United Kingdom during that timeframe. The tournament is scheduled to begin on 1 October 2027, with Australia hosting Hong Kong in the opening match.
