Sydney is the big winner after being confirmed as the host city for the 2027 Rugby World Cup final, with Melbourne avoiding the embarrassment of missing out altogether after putting together a last-minute deal to host nine games of one of global sport's largest and most prestigious events.
Officials from World Rugby and Rugby Australia gathered on Thursday for the official announcement of the host cities, with Sydney awarded a massive coup, with the Harbour City to host the tournament's four biggest games – the final, the bronze medal match and the two semi finals. It will also host two of the four quarter-finals as well as two round of 16 matches and five pool games.
Melbourne, which just weeks ago appeared unlikely to host any matches after the Victorian government withdrew its bid to host the final and semi-finals, returned to the negotiating table at the 11th hour, reports The Sydney Morning Herald, and was awarded seven pool matches and two round of 16 games.
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The Victorian government had earlier in the bid process hoped to land the World Cup's marquee matches by spruiking the potential to break records for the biggest crowd for a RWC final by hosting it and a semi-final at the MCG.
South Africa's Siya Kolisi lifts the Webb Ellis Cup with teammates following victory in the 2023 RWC final. PA Images via Getty Images
However, the NSW government's bid was reportedly more financially attractive, prompting the Victorian government to walk away from negotiations before a late change of heart, prompted by the prospect of a city that often touts itself as the event capital and the sporting capital of Australia, missing out completely.
Rugby Australia's decision to axe the Melbourne Rebels from Super Rugby also reportedly played into Victoria's handling of the bid process, however due to the fact that the World Cup is organised by World Rugby, not RA, thoughts of revenge were perhaps misplaced.
Brisbane is the other host city to feature prominently, winning hosting rights for six pool games, two round of 16 matches and two quarter-finals.
Perth, the home of the Western Force, scored five pool matches and two round of 16 matches, while Adelaide, Newcastle and Townsville all scored pool matches.
Perhaps the biggest omission is Canberra, with the ACT government choosing not to enter into the bid process despite the fact it is the home of Australia's most successful Super Rugby franchise, the Brumbies.
World Rugby chair Brett Robinson, an Australian who was capped 16 times by the Wallabies between 1996 and 1998, said he was "delighted" by the buy in for the tournament from Australia's major cities.
"The selection of these incredible host cities reflects our commitment to bring Rugby World Cup to as many Australians as possible and maximise the tournament's positive impact and sporting legacy in all host communities," he said.
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh, meanwhile, described the World Cup as "a huge opportunity for our country".
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Brett Robinson is congratulated by Phil Waugh. Getty
"From the economic impacts, to the energising of the fan base, to the inspiration provided to the next generation of players, RWC 2027 will leave a legacy that will be felt in Australia for many years to come," he said.
The World Cup will come at the end of a pivotal two years for rugby in Australia, combining with this year's Lions Tour in June to offer a huge opportunity for the code to rebuild financially and set itself up to compete and grow in a highly competitive sports marketplace into the next decade.
While the host cities for the World Cup have now been confirmed, the venues used in each city have not yet been allocated, although Sydney's Accor Stadium is certain to host the final and semi finals.
