Rugby's biggest global celebration will showcase the game in all its forms in 2027, with the World Wheelchair Rugby Cup set to take centre stage in Brisbane alongside Men's Rugby World Cup 2027.
Taking place from 25-29 October 2027 between the Round of 16 and quarterfinals of Men's Rugby World Cup 2027, the World Wheelchair Rugby Cup will bring the world's best wheelchair rugby athletes to Brisbane at a time when thousands of international fans are already in the city for rugby's premier event. Event organiser Wheelchair Rugby Australia is aiming to attract the largest crowd ever recorded for a standalone wheelchair rugby event outside of the Paralympic Games over the five-day tournament.
The alignment previously tested at Rugby World Cup 2023 in France will provide supporters with the opportunity to experience two world-class forms of rugby in Brisbane, shining a global spotlight on wheelchair rugby while reinforcing the sport's commitment to inclusion, accessibility and opportunity for all.
With Brisbane preparing to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, where Rugby Sevens and Wheelchair Rugby are expected to be among the most exciting and engaging events on the programme, the World Wheelchair Rugby Cup represents another significant milestone in the city's journey towards becoming one of the world's leading destinations for inclusive sport.
Accessibility at the heart of Rugby World Cup planning
Guided by a whole-of-tournament accessibility approach, inclusion has been embedded across every stage of the fan journey, from digital platforms and ticketing experiences through to venue operations, workforce development and live event delivery. The tournament is being designed to ensure that all fans, regardless of background, circumstance or ability, can fully participate in and enjoy the experience.
Initiatives include accessible seating and viewing areas at all eight venues, sensory rooms, multi-faith spaces, accessible digital experiences, inclusive wayfinding, workforce training and targeted employment opportunities for people with disability. Through these measures, Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 aims to create a lasting legacy for accessibility that extends well beyond the tournament itself.
World Rugby Chair, Brett Robinson said: "The alignment of the World Wheelchair Rugby Cup with Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 is a powerful expression of what rugby stands for as a sport for all, and a reflection of our vision to make Australia 2027 the most accessible edition ever organised.
"By bringing these two world-class events together in Brisbane, we have an incredible opportunity to introduce new audiences to wheelchair rugby, celebrate extraordinary athletes and give travelling and local fans the chance to experience another exciting form of our game during Rugby World Cup 2027.
"Importantly, this is a key part to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong, regardless of their background or ability, and a powerful way to shine a global spotlight on both our sports in tandem with World Wheelchair Rugby, proving that rugby is a game for everyone.”
World Wheelchair Rugby President, Richard Allcroft OBE, said: “World Wheelchair Rugby is delighted to host the 2027 World Wheelchair Rugby Cup in Brisbane.
“Australia has a proud history in international wheelchair rugby, and Brisbane provides an outstanding setting to bring the world’s leading teams together for a major global competition.
“The success of a world class event alongside the Rugby World Cup has demonstrated the potential of bringing wheelchair rugby to new audiences alongside major international sporting events. Brisbane presents an exciting opportunity to build on that legacy and showcase the scale, quality and energy of wheelchair rugby to an even wider audience.
“We look forward to working with Wheelchair Rugby Australia and our partners to deliver a World Cup that puts the athletes and the sport at the centre of a truly global sporting event.”
Tickets for Brisbane’s World Wheelchair Rugby Cup will go on sale in early 2027. Fans can register their interest in tickets and to be the first to know key tournament details on Wheelchair Rugby Australia’s website at www.wheelchairrugby.com.au/world-cup.
With Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 now less than a year away and 10 matches hosted in Brisbane, excitement is building as Australia prepares to welcome 24 nations across seven Host Cities for rugby’s biggest event.
Fans can secure their place in the stands now at tickets.rugbyworldcup.com and be part of the unmissable moments, fierce rivalries and unforgettable atmosphere that will define the tournament.
Premium hospitality and travel packages, including access to the Final and other highly anticipated fixtures, are also available through Rugby World Cup Experiences.