The Nations Championship: Your Complete Guide to Rugby’s New Global Tournament

The Nations Championship will debut on the world stage in July 2026, marking one of the most exciting evolutions in international rugby. Played across six rounds, this groundbreaking competition will see the Northern and Southern Hemispheres go head‑to‑head in a brand‑new global format featuring the top international rugby teams.

To help fans prepare for the kick‑off on 4 July 2026, we’ve created this comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about the Nations Championship, the format, the teams, and how you can be part of rugby history.

A New Era: What Is the Nations Championship?

The launch of the Nations Championship represents a shift in the international rugby calendar. For decades, fixtures have largely followed historic traditions: the Guinness Six Nations, Summer Tours, Autumn Internationals, that we know and love.

But never before has rugby seen a unified structure that brings together both hemispheres into one cohesive competition. The Nations Championship promises:

New and renewed rivalries
A more competitive global landscape, uniting fans
High‑stakes matches

With world‑class talent on display, fierce matches, and a tournament that keeps fans on the edge of their seats, this is set to become a HUGE event for rugby supporters around the world.

The Nations Championship Pools

The inaugural tournament consists of two pools, each featuring six of the world’s top rugby nations:

Northern Hemisphere Pool

England
France
Ireland
Italy
Scotland
Wales

Southern Hemisphere Pool

Argentina
Australia
New Zealand
South Africa
Japan
Fiji

How the Nations Championship Works: The Format

The 2026 Nations Championship introduces a dynamic and competitive structure designed to deliver drama in every round.

12 teams split into two pools (Northern & Southern Hemispheres)
Each nation plays all six teams in the opposite pool, both home and away
Points awarded for wins, draws, and bonus points, so teams have to ensure every match counts
After the pool stage, all teams progress to Finals Weekend
Teams face the nation that finished in the same position in the opposite pool
The tournament concludes with a First Place vs First Place Grand Final in London on 27th – 29th November 2026.

When and Where Will the Nations Championship Take Place?

The competition is biannual, taking place in seasons without a Rugby World Cup or a British & Irish Lions Tour.

Key details:

Matches are held in July and November
Games are played across both hemispheres, giving fans epic global rugby moments
All 12 teams then travel to London for Finals Weekend, where final rankings are decided and the inaugural champion is crowned

How the Tournament Will Evolve

The Nations Championship is built with the foundations for growth, with plans discussed for:

Increasing from 12 to 24 teams, creating more opportunities worldwide
Introducing promotions and relegations
Developing pathways for emerging rugby nations
Creating an even more competitive global structure

These changes promise to bring more excitement, different rugby personalities and more unforgettable rivalries to fans worldwide.

Experience the Nations Championship Live With Gullivers Sports Travel

At Gullivers Sports Travel, we’re thrilled to take fans to selected Nations Championship fixtures, giving you the chance to support England, Scotland, and Wales as they take on the rest of world’s best rugby teams.

Why Travel With Gullivers Sports Travel?

🏉 Official and trusted rugby travel specialists
With over 50 years of experience, we’re the UK’s leading sports travel company, delivering seamless, unforgettable rugby adventures.

🌍 Follow your home nation with confidence
Whether you’re cheering on England, backing Scotland, or joining Wales’ passionate travelling support, our packages are built for fans.

🎉 Join a community of rugby fans
Travel, celebrate, and experience the Nations Championship alongside like‑minded supporters who share your passion.

🤝 Dedicated on‑tour support
Our experienced team is with you every step of the way, ensuring you get the most out of your rugby journey.

Secure Your Nations Championship Experience Today

The first‑ever Nations Championship is set to redefine world rugby, and you can be there for every moment that matters.

Explore our travel packages and register your interest here with Gullivers Sports Travel.