Nine Networks and Stan Sport will continue as exclusive broadcasters for Rugby World Cups in Australia, following a new partnership with World Rugby. This collaboration will feature the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, as well as the 2027 Men’s and 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cups, both to be hosted in Australia. In addition to these prestigious tournaments, the agreement encompasses other significant events, including the Under-20 Championship, the Pacific Nations Cup, WXV tournaments, and the World Sevens Series.
The partnership was underscored by Nine’s CEO, Matt Stanton, who noted it enhances Nine’s stature as the leading broadcaster for rugby in Australia. He highlighted the ability of Nine to deliver rugby content across various platforms, including streaming services like 9Now and Stan Sport, and traditional broadcast on the 9Network. Stanton expressed confidence that this deal not only benefits fans but also provides advertisers with impactful opportunities to engage audiences.
This year, Nine and Stan will also air the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia, which includes three Tests among nine matches scheduled from June to August. This agreement comes shortly after Nine and Stan secured a five-year contract with Rugby Australia for Super Rugby Pacific matches and tests involving the Wallabies and Wallaroos.
Catherine West, the Chair of Nine, emphasised that acquiring the rights to these global rugby events reflects Nine’s commitment to delivering exceptional value to its viewers, partners, and shareholders. She asserted that the trust placed in Nine by major sporting bodies is indicative of its capability to enhance the fan experience and boost interest in rugby.
World Rugby’s Chair, Brett Robinson, remarked that this alliance aims to rekindle enthusiasm for rugby in Australia. With Nine’s extensive reach and expert commentary, they are set to make rugby more accessible to fans across the nation while creating a comprehensive hub for rugby enthusiasts.
World Rugby’s CEO, Alan Gilpin, expressed excitement over this partnership, focusing on inspiring a new generation of rugby fans. He looks forward to boosting the sport’s visibility in Australia as they enter a transformative era, particularly leading up to the major Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029.
Through this partnership, Nine and Stan Sport are poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing the profile of rugby in Australia and providing a platform that celebrates both the sport and its athletes.