Nations Cup 2026 Preview – Round 1 fixtures, media assets and broadcast details
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A new era of international rugby
The World Rugby Nations Cup is a new competition designed as a catalyst for global growth. As part of the reformed international calendar, it delivers meaningful, consistent competition for Rugby World Cup-qualified nations outside the Nations Championship, accelerating on-field competitiveness while unlocking new commercial opportunities for participating unions.
- Played in even-numbered years across July & November, opening round on 4 July 2026
- Participating nations: 12 - Canada, Chile, Georgia, Hong Kong China, Portugal, Romania, Samoa, Spain, Tonga, USA, Uruguay, Zimbabwe
- Six match days | Two pools | two champions
- Assets: Media guides, photos, VNR, match packs
- Broadcast: RugbyPass TV and local partners
Resources available
- Team Media Guides for each nation
- Selection of rights-free photo from matches
- Video News Release including match footage for news purposes only (available shortly after each match)
- Match packs with facts and statistics (available two days before matches)
The Nations Cup explained
Round 1 fixtures
This opening round on 4 July taking place across the Americas sets the tone for a tournament that will steadily build narrative, sporting jeopardy and fan engagement across its duration.
Where to watch the Nations Cup?
- Australia: Stan
- Canada: TSN
- Georgia: Rugby TV
- Latin America: ESPN
- New Zealand: Sky NZ
- Portugal: RugbyTV
- Romania: TVR
- USA: CBS/Paramount+
- Everywhere else: RugbyPass TV
About the Nations Cup
The World Rugby Nations Cup is a new competition designed to accelerate the global growth of the game. A cornerstone of World Rugby’s strategic plan and the reformed international calendar, it provides meaningful, consistent competition for the 12 Rugby World Cup-qualified nations outside the Nations Championship.
Played in even years alongside the Nations Championship and following the same format and schedule, the Nations Cup transforms the traditional July and November test windows into a connected, high-stakes competition with a clear narrative and sporting consequence.
Together, the Nations Championship and Nations Cup create a 24-team international framework that enhances competitiveness, strengthens pathway opportunities and unlocks new commercial and fan engagement potential. Designed by the game, for the game, the Nations Cup reflects World Rugby’s commitment to targeted investment, helping unions grow on and off the field while strengthening the global rugby landscape.