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North American Invitational 7s | Irish Rugby Tours

Celebrating Excellence in Salt Lake City: Irish Rugby Tours at the NAI 7s

The countdown is officially over—and what an incredible weekend of rugby it was! The Irish Rugby Tours team recently crossed the Atlantic to Salt Lake City, Utah, for the premier youth 7s tournament on the continent: the North American Invitational 7s (NAI 7s).

As official sponsors of this year’s event, we were thrilled to be on the ground supporting one of the most dynamic, fast-paced, and competitive rugby festivals in the world.

The Pinnacle of Youth & U23 7s Rugby

The NAI 7s is widely recognized as the largest and most competitive youth rugby tournament in North America. Hosted at the Regional Athletic Complex against the stunning backdrop of Utah’s mountain ranges, this prestigious festival brings together elite youth academies, schools, clubs, and collegiate sides from across the globe.

With over 170 confirmed teams competing across two intense days of action, the tournament delivered world-class performances. Young athletes tested themselves against top-tier competition while playing directly in front of dozens of college, national, and professional talent scouts.

On the Ground: Visiting the Irish Rugby Tours Tent

While the high-octane 7s action unfolded on the field, the Irish Rugby Tours team was on the ground all weekend long. We had the pleasure of welcoming coaches, club directors, parents, and players to our tent to discuss their developmental goals and future touring visions.

Whether teams wanted to experience the unmatched passion of Irish rugby, take on top European clubs in France or Italy, or explore the rich rugby heritage of South Africa, South America, or New Zealand, our team was ready to start crafting custom itineraries on the spot.

Celebrating Every NAI 7s Bracket Champion

With fierce competition across every age group and skill tier—from U14 development to the Men’s U23 division—we want to extend a massive congratulations to every single team that won their respective bracket champion titles at this year’s tournament (as published on the NAI 7s Official Schedule & Results):

Boys Divisions

  • Boys U18 Elite Champions: Rebel Rugby Academy

    In a high-stakes Elite final, Rebel Rugby White put on an incredible performance to claim the pinnacle Boys U18 Elite crown over San Mateo Wolverines (21–19).

  • Boys U18 Open Champions: Herriman High School

    Herriman capped off an undefeated tournament run with a commanding 52–7 victory in the final over Belmont Shore.

  • Boys U16 Elite Champions: Atlantis Rugby

    Atlantis Rugby showcased elite speed and physical defense to capture the U16 Elite title.

  • Boys U16 Open Champions: Hawaiian Gardens Youth Rugby

          Hawaiian Gardens Youth Rugby navigated a tough bracket to earn the U16 Open championship trophy.

  • Boys U14 Champions: Westlake Drua

    Westlake Drua junior side dominated the U14 field with clinical skill execution.

Girls Divisions

  • Girls U18 Tier 1 Champions: Utah Cannibals

    The Cannibals delivered a masterpiece performance in front of their home crowd, securing the Tier 1 championship with a 28–0 shutout against the Majestics.

  • Girls U18 Tier 2 Champions: Westlake Drua

    Westlake Drua pulled off a thrilling 21–15 victory in the final over SacAIR to take home the Tier 2 title.

  • Girls U16 Champions: TOA Academy MALOSI

    TOA Academy showed incredible depth, with MALOSI defeating sister-side TOA Academy SEKI in the championship match.

  • Girls U14 Champions: Utah Cannibals

    Completing a double-championship weekend for the program, the U14 Utah Cannibals earned gold with a stunning 50–0 win in the final.

Men’s U23 Division

  • Men’s U23 Champions: Belmont Shore U23

    Bridging the pathway between high school academies and senior professional rugby, Belmont Shore U23 outlasted a star-studded field including PNW Selects and Silicon Valley to win the U23 bracket championship.

The Impact of an International Rugby Tour

Events like NAI 7s demonstrate the unique power of rugby to bring young athletes together from across the globe. Taking your team on an international tour expands on this foundation, offering benefits that extend far beyond the final whistle:

  • Unrivaled Team Bonding: Shared travel experiences, foreign environments, and shared challenges build deep trust, communication, and friendships that directly translate to on-field performance.

  • Personal Growth and Leadership: Stepping outside their comfort zones teaches players independence, accountability, and adaptability.

  • Global Tactical Exposure: Playing against international opposition introduces both players and coaches to diverse playing styles, technical approaches, and rugby traditions.

Plan Your Next Chapter with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about bringing supporters, schools and clubs closer to the game they love.

Whether you’re planning bespoke Rugby Travel to Ireland to experience the incredible atmosphere of international rugby, organizing specialized club and school trips through our Rugby Tours Hub, or looking to explore iconic rugby destinations around the world, our team creates unforgettable rugby experiences from start to finish.

With major global events like the inaugural Nations Championship capturing the rugby world’s attention, there has never been a better time to broaden your team’s horizons.

Get in Touch Today

Reach our team directly to start planning your next tour:

Get in touch today for a free, tailored quote and let’s get your team on the pitch.

  • Phone: +353 1 685 6277

  • Email: info@irishrugbytours.com

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North American Invitational 7s | Irish Rugby Tours

Irish Rugby Tours Proudly Sponsors NAI 7s: The Largest Youth Rugby Event in North America

The countdown is officially on. Next week, the Irish Rugby Tours team is crossing the Atlantic to Salt Lake City, Utah, for the premier youth 7s tournament on the continent—the North American Invitational 7s (NAI 7s).

As official sponsors of this year’s event, we are thrilled to support one of the most dynamic and competitive rugby festivals in the world.

The Pinnacle of Youth 7s Rugby

The NAI 7s is widely recognized as the largest and most competitive youth rugby tournament in North America.

Hosted at the Regional Athletic Complex against the stunning backdrop of Utah’s mountain ranges, this prestigious festival brings together elite youth academies, schools, and clubs from across the globe.

With over 170 confirmed teams competing across July 31st and August 1st, the tournament promises world-class action. Young athletes will test themselves against top-tier international competition while playing directly in front of dozens of college, national, and professional talent scouts.

Visit the Irish Rugby Tours Tent in Salt Lake City

While the high-octane 7s action unfolds on the field, the Irish Rugby Tours team will be on the ground all weekend long.

If you are a coach, club director, parent, or player attending NAI 7s, we invite you to stop by the Irish Rugby Tours tent to speak with our dedicated team.

Whether your squad wants to experience the unmatched passion of Irish rugby, take on top European clubs in France or Italy, or explore the rich rugby heritage of South Africa, South America, or New Zealand, we are ready to bring your vision to life.

What You Can Expect at Our Tent:

  • Consult with Tour Experts: Speak directly with our experienced tour planners to discuss your team’s developmental goals, preferred dates, and budget.

  • Kickstart Your Custom Itinerary: Leave your team’s details with us on-site so we can begin crafting a tailored itinerary for your school, club, or academy.

  • Explore Global Destinations: Discover our wide array of bespoke touring packages across Europe, North America, South America, and the Southern Hemisphere.

The Impact of an International Rugby Tour

Events like NAI 7s demonstrate the unique power of rugby to bring young athletes together from across the globe. Taking your team on an international tour expands on this foundation, offering benefits that extend far beyond the final whistle:

  • Unrivaled Team Bonding: Shared travel experiences, foreign environments, and shared challenges build deep trust, communication, and friendships that directly translate to on-field performance.

  • Personal Growth and Leadership: Stepping outside their comfort zones teaches players independence, accountability, and adaptability.

  • Global Tactical Exposure: Playing against international opposition introduces both players and coaches to diverse playing styles, technical approaches, and rugby traditions.

Plan Your Next Chapter with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about bringing supporters, schools and clubs closer to the game they love.

Whether you’re planning bespoke Rugby Travel to Ireland to experience the incredible atmosphere of international rugby, organizing specialized club and school trips through our Rugby Tours Hub, or looking to explore iconic rugby destinations around the world, our team creates unforgettable rugby experiences from start to finish.

With major global events like the inaugural Nations Championship capturing the rugby world’s attention, there has never been a better time to broaden your team’s horizons.

Event Details & Contact Information

  • Tournament Dates: July 31st – August 1st

  • Location: Regional Athletic Complex, Salt Lake City, Utah

We wish every player, coach, referee, and organizer heading to NAI 7s the best of luck for an outstanding tournament.

If you are unable to visit our tent in Utah, you can reach our team directly to start planning your next tour:

Get in touch today for a free, tailored quote and let’s get your team on the pitch.

  • Phone: +353 1 685 6277

  • Email: info@irishrugbytours.com

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Nations Championship 2026 Round 3 Results | Irish Rugby Tours

Hemisphere rivalries reach boiling point as the world’s powerhouse rugby nations wrapped up an incredible weekend of Round Three action.

The intensity of the inaugural Nations Rugby Championship scaled new heights over the weekend. With the cross-hemisphere battle sitting at a perfectly balanced 9 wins apiece across 18 matches, every single point mattered. The North clawed onto 536 total points, while the South held a slight edge with 573 points, setting up a thrilling statistical dead-heat in the global standings.

From ruthless shutouts to high-scoring masterclasses on the road, Round Three delivered pure drama, showing exactly why this tournament has captured the rugby world’s imagination.

Round Three Results

Argentina 24–31 England

England secured a massive statement win on the road, silencing a fierce home crowd in Argentina. Steve Borthwick’s men showed incredible tactical discipline and composure under pressure, holding off a late Pumas fightback to secure an invaluable away victory for the Northern Hemisphere.

South Africa 43–0 Wales

The reigning world champions put on an absolute clinic at home, completely shutting out a resilient but outmatched Welsh side. The Springboks’ suffocating defense and relentless physical dominance gave the visitors no room to breathe, keeping South Africa’s flawless tournament run firmly on track.

Fiji 17–33 Scotland

Scotland weathered an early physical storm in Fiji to log an impressive away victory. The Scots used their structured set-piece and clinical finishing to gradually pull away from the hosts, ensuring the North kept pace in the overall hemisphere battle.

Australia 57–10 Italy

The Wallabies bounced back in spectacular fashion, unleashing a blistering attacking display to completely dismantle Italy. Showcasing clinical counter-attacking rugby and lethal finishing, Australia put on a show for their home fans and injected massive momentum back into their campaign.

Japan 15–42 France

France continued their fine attacking form with a dominant display in Japan. Les Bleus utilized their signature power game and creative flair to break through the Brave Blossoms’ defensive lines, controlling the tempo from start to finish to secure another crucial bonus-point win.

New Zealand 40–21 Ireland

The All Blacks delivered a powerhouse performance in the weekend’s ultimate blockbuster clash in Auckland. Despite Ireland’s relentless work rate and clinical moments, New Zealand’s explosive counter-attacking and sheer physicality proved too much to handle, handing Andy Farrell’s men their first defeat of the campaign in a captivating encounter.

The Battle Intensifies

With three rounds officially in the books, the inaugural Nations Championship is proving to be everything rugby fans had hoped for. The global scoreboard couldn’t be tighter: 18 matches played, a dead-even 9-9 split between the North and the South, and razor-thin margins separating the world’s elite. Every single weekend continues to deliver world-class entertainment.

What’s Next?

The competition shows no signs of slowing down, but teams now have a chance to regroup before the massive Northern Series and Finals phase kicks off.

Round 4 officially gets underway from November 6th to November 8th, 2026. Make sure to add these blockbuster fixtures to your ecal so you don’t miss a single minute of the action:

 

FixtureVenueKick-off (BST)
Ireland vs ArgentinaAviva Stadium, Dublin8:10pm
Italy vs South AfricaAllianz Stadium, Turin11:40am
Scotland vs New ZealandMurrayfield, Edinburgh2:10pm
Wales vs JapanPrincipality Stadium, Cardiff4:40pm
France vs FijiGroupama Stadium, Lyon8:10pm
England vs AustraliaAllianz Stadium, London3:10pm

 

The drama is building, the rivalries are deepening, and the race for hemisphere supremacy remains completely wide open heading into Round 4, Round 5, and Round 6.

If this tournament has you dreaming of watching elite northern hemisphere rugby up close, make sure to check out our guide to The 2027 Six Nations Experience to see how you can experience Dublin on a match day. For a look back at how this thrilling journey began, you can also read our summary of the Nations Championship Opening Weekend.

Follow International Rugby with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about bringing supporters, schools and clubs closer to the game they love.

Whether you’re planning bespoke Rugby Travel to Ireland to experience the incredible atmosphere of international rugby, organizing specialized club and school trips through our Rugby Tours Hub, or looking to explore iconic rugby destinations around the world, our team creates unforgettable rugby experiences from start to finish.

Inspired by the dramatic action of the Nations Championship? There’s never been a better time to start planning your next rugby adventure.

Get in touch today for a free, tailored quote and let’s get your team on the pitch.

📞 +353 1 685 6277

📧 info@irishrugbytours.com

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Round Two Drama: Powerhouses Stand Firm in the Nations Championship

Hemisphere rivalries ignite as the powerhouse nations lock horns in an epic round of fixtures.

The momentum from an unforgettable opening weekend carried straight into Round Two of the inaugural Nations Rugby Nations Championship. With crucial points on the line, the world’s elite rugby nations produced another masterclass in skill, power, and drama across six captivating fixtures.

From statement bounce-back victories to dominant displays on the road, the second week of action gave fans plenty more to talk about as the northern and southern hemispheres continued their epic battle.

Round Two Results

  • New Zealand 47-17 Italy

    The All Blacks made it two wins from two with a commanding performance against Italy in Wellington. After a tight opening half-hour, New Zealand’s clinical counter-attacking game proved too much for the Azzurri to handle, solidifying the hosts’ perfect start to the campaign.

  • Australia 26-42 France

    France bounced back from their agonizing opening-week defeat in style, putting on a spectacular attacking display in Brisbane. Les Bleus showcased their signature flair and power to overpower the Wallabies on their own turf, keeping French championship hopes firmly alive.

  • Japan 20-36 Ireland

    Ireland continued their flawless start to the tournament, overcoming a resilient Japan side in Newcastle. Andy Farrell’s men controlled the tempo and struck clinical blows when it mattered most, securing a bonus-point victory that sets them up perfectly for the weeks ahead.

  • Fiji 8-73 England

    England responded to their opening-round defeat with a ruthless, high-scoring performance against Fiji in Liverpool. Steve Borthwick’s side ran in a flurry of tries to completely dominate the fixture, sending a massive statement to the rest of the competition.

  • South Africa 42-28 Scotland

    The reigning world champions were pushed hard at Loftus Versfeld, but Ultimately South Africa’s sheer physicality secured them another impressive victory. Scotland threw everything they had at the Springboks in a thrilling, high-scoring encounter, but the hosts held firm to make it two from two.

  • Argentina 35-21 Wales

    Argentina lit up San Juan with a brilliant bounce-back victory over Wales. Playing in front of a roaring home crowd, Los Pumas executed a tactical masterclass to nullify the Welsh attack and claim their first invaluable win of the tournament.

The Battle Intensifies

With two rounds officially in the books, the inaugural Nations Championship is proving to be everything rugby fans had hoped for. The margins are razor-thin, and the competitive fire burning between the hemispheres is delivering world-class entertainment every single weekend.

What’s Next?

With two rounds officially in the books, the inaugural Nations Championship is proving to be everything rugby fans had hoped for. The margins are razor-thin, and the competitive fire burning between the hemispheres is delivering world-class entertainment every single weekend.

The competition shows no signs of slowing down as we head straight into Round Three this coming weekend. Here is what’s on the horizon:

  • New Zealand v Ireland

  • Japan v France

  • Australia v Italy

  • Fiji v Scotland

  • South Africa v Wales

  • Argentina v England

The headline fixture sees a massive clash in Auckland as Ireland travel to face the All Blacks in what promises to be an absolute blockbuster.

If this tournament has you dreaming of watching elite northern hemisphere rugby up close, make sure to check out our guide to The 2027 Six Nations Experience to see how you can experience Dublin on a match day. For a look back at how this thrilling journey began, you can also read our summary of the Nations Championship Opening Weekend.

Follow International Rugby with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about bringing supporters, schools and clubs closer to the game they love.

Whether you’re planning bespoke Rugby Travel to Ireland to experience the incredible atmosphere of international rugby, organizing specialized club and school trips through our Rugby Tours Hub, or looking to explore iconic rugby destinations around the world, our team creates unforgettable rugby experiences from start to finish.

Inspired by the dramatic action of the Nations Championship? There’s never been a better time to start planning your next rugby adventure.

Get in touch today for a free, tailored quote and let’s get your team on the pitch.

📞 +353 1 685 6277

📧 info@irishrugbytours.com

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Nations Championship Delivers a Thrilling Opening Weekend of International Rugby

The inaugural Nations Rugby Nations Championship got off to a spectacular start this past weekend, with six blockbuster fixtures showcasing the very best of international rugby.

From dramatic last-minute finishes to dominant performances from some of the world’s leading rugby nations, the opening round certainly lived up to expectations. Fans were treated to free-flowing rugby, fierce rivalries and plenty of talking points as the new biennial competition officially began.

Opening Weekend Results

 

🇳🇿 New Zealand 34-32 France

The first-ever Nations Championship fixture didn’t disappoint. New Zealand edged out France in a thrilling encounter in Christchurch, holding off a late French fightback to secure a narrow two-point victory. It was the perfect way to launch the competition and highlighted exactly why fixtures between these two rugby powerhouses are always must-watch occasions.

🇯🇵 Japan 27-10 Italy

Japan produced one of the standout performances of the weekend with an impressive victory over Italy in Tokyo. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, Japan controlled the match from start to finish and made an excellent start to their Nations Championship campaign.

🇮🇪 Ireland 33-31 Australia

Ireland travelled to Sydney knowing they faced one of the toughest opening fixtures possible, and they certainly delivered. In a dramatic contest, Andy Farrell’s side held their nerve to secure a memorable 33-31 victory over the Wallabies.

The result gives Ireland an excellent platform heading into Round Two as they continue their pursuit of the inaugural Nations Championship title.

🏴 Wales 39-24 Fiji

Wales bounced back with an entertaining victory over Fiji in Cardiff. While Fiji once again showcased their attacking flair, Wales proved clinical when it mattered most to claim an important opening-round win.

🇿🇦 South Africa 45-21 England

The reigning world champions made a statement at Ellis Park with a commanding victory over England. South Africa’s physicality, power and clinical finishing proved too much as they began their campaign in dominant fashion.

🏴 Scotland 47-38 Argentina

Scotland rounded off an action-packed weekend with an impressive win in Córdoba. The Scots produced an exciting attacking display, scoring seven tries to defeat Argentina in one of the highest-scoring matches of the opening round.

 

A Brilliant Start to a New Era

The opening weekend proved exactly why the Nations Championship has generated so much excitement. The new format brings together the best teams from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres in meaningful fixtures where every result matters.

With close contests, attacking rugby and world-class talent on display, supporters have already been treated to one of the most entertaining international weekends in recent memory.

What’s Next?

Round Two takes place this weekend, with another exciting schedule of fixtures:

* 🇳🇿 New Zealand v Italy
* 🇦🇺 Australia v France
* 🇯🇵 Japan v Ireland
* 🇫🇯 Fiji v England
* 🇿🇦 South Africa v Scotland
* 🇦🇷 Argentina v Wales

Ireland will be aiming to build on their dramatic victory over Australia when they face Japan, while Scotland travel to Pretoria for a huge test against South Africa.

Follow International Rugby with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about bringing supporters, schools and clubs closer to the game they love.

Whether you’re planning rugby travel to Ireland to experience the incredible atmosphere of international rugby, organising bespoke rugby tours to Ireland for your club or school, or looking to explore iconic rugby destinations around the world, our team creates unforgettable rugby experiences from start to finish.

Inspired by the Nations Championship? There’s never been a better time to start planning your next rugby adventure.

 

Get in touch today for a free, tailored quote.

📞 +353 1 685 6277

📧 info@irishrugbytours.com

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Celebrating 4th of July: Honoring Our Deep History with American Rugby Tours

Over here at Irish Rugby Tours, the 4th of July holds an incredibly special place in our hearts. While our friends across the Atlantic are firing up the barbecues and enjoying Independence Day fireworks, we are busy doing what we love most: welcoming a massive wave of American school, college, and youth rugby teams to the Emerald Isle for the peak summer touring season.

For decades, we have been proud to serve as the premier gateway for US teams looking to test their skills on international soil and experience the true depth of Irish culture. Planning a US team tour to Ireland? See our dedicated options for USA rugby tours to Ireland to see how we handle everything from fixtures to custom itineraries.

st edwards- Usa to Ireland

A Proud History of Welcoming the USA to Ireland

We don’t just organize trips; we build lifelong bonds between American and Irish rugby communities.

From elite US collegiate programs and state championship high school sides to local youth clubs, we have hosted teams from almost every corner of America. We understand the unique requirements of US touring sides—from managing academic summer schedules and coordinating group flights to ensuring the competitive match fixtures align perfectly with your team’s developmental goals.

Planning a future summer rugby trip for your school or club? Get a free, tailored tour quote from our travel experts today.

When an American team touches down in Ireland with us, they aren’t just tourists—they are highly anticipated guests who receive the absolute highest standard of Irish hospitality.

Why US Teams Choose Ireland for Summer Tours

The long summer days of July provide the perfect canvas for an unforgettable development tour. With daylight stretching well past 9:30 PM, touring teams enjoy optimal conditions for training sessions, evening fixtures, and exploring iconic Irish landmarks.

Why It Works for American Squads

  • Unbeatable Weather: July brings the finest, mildest weather of the year on the emerald isle, ideal for running rugby.

  • Squad Bonding: It allows coaches to integrate incoming players, build team culture, and set tactical foundations long before the fall competitive semester begins.

  • The Perfect Mix: A seamless blend of top-tier matches, professional coaching clinics, and world-class sightseeing.

Red, White, and Green: Celebrating the 4th of July Abroad

One of the most common questions American athletic directors and coaches ask us is: “Will our players miss out on Independence Day if they are overseas?” Not at all! Because of the deep historical ties between Ireland and the USA, the 4th of July is celebrated widely here.

We love organizing special US-themed barbecues, team dinners, and holiday celebrations for our visiting American squads. Celebrating the 4th of July with a traditional post-match social alongside a local Irish host club is an unforgettable cross-cultural experience that players remember for the rest of their lives.

USA 4 of July

Frequently Asked Questions About US Rugby Tours to Ireland

 

Does Irish Rugby Tours have experience with American school and youth teams?

Yes! We have a long, proud history of working specifically with American youth clubs, high schools, and universities from all across the United States, managing everything from safety logistics to custom competitive match fixtures.

Is July a good time to bring an American rugby team to Ireland?

July is one of the absolute best months for a US tour. The weather is excellent, the daylight hours are exceptionally long, and local Irish clubs love hosting friendly summer exhibition matches and post-game social events

How far in advance should a US team begin planning a tour?

Because summer is peak travel season for flights and central hotel accommodations, we highly recommend that US clubs and schools begin planning their itineraries 9 to 12 months in advance to secure the best rates.

Follow Rugby Around the World with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about helping rugby fans and teams experience the game beyond their home stadium.

Whether you’re planning rugby travel to experience the electric atmosphere of an international fixture, organising one of our tailored rugby tours to Ireland for your American school or club, or exploring exciting global rugby destinations, we create unforgettable travel experiences both on and off the field.

Thinking about your next rugby adventure? Get a free, tailored quote!

📞 +353 1 685 6277
📧 info@irishrugbytours.com

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The Countdown is On: The Nations Championship Kicks Off on 4 July

The wait is almost over! On 4 July, international rugby enters an exciting new era as the inaugural Nations Championship gets underway. Bringing together 12 of the world’s top rugby nations, the competition promises blockbuster fixtures, fierce rivalries, and a fresh format that will redefine international rugby.

For rugby supporters, players, and touring teams, this is one of the biggest events on the 2026 rugby calendar.

What is the Nations Championship?

The Nations Championship is a new biennial international tournament featuring the Six Nations teams – Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy – alongside New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Argentina, Fiji, and Japan. Instead of the traditional summer tours, teams will face opponents from the opposite hemisphere in July and November, with the competition culminating in a Finals Weekend later in the year.

The new format aims to create more meaningful international fixtures while giving fans the chance to enjoy some of rugby’s biggest rivalries on a regular basis.

Opening Weekend Fixtures – Saturday 4 July

The inaugural Nations Championship begins with six blockbuster fixtures taking place across three continents, bringing together the world’s best rugby nations.

FixtureVenueKick-off (BST)
🇳🇿 New Zealand v FranceOne New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch8:10am
🇯🇵 Japan v ItalyPrince Chichibu Memorial Stadium, Tokyo9:40am
🇦🇺 Australia v IrelandAllianz Stadium, Sydney11:10am
🇫🇯 Fiji v WalesCardiff City Stadium, Cardiff2:10pm
🇿🇦 South Africa v EnglandEmirates Airline Park (Ellis Park), Johannesburg4:40pm
🇦🇷 Argentina v ScotlandEstadio Mario Alberto Kempes, Córdoba8:10pm

The opening round promises a feast of international rugby, with Ireland travelling to Sydney to face Australia, England taking on the reigning world champions South Africa in Johannesburg, and Scotland travelling to Córdoba for a tough encounter against Argentina. The day begins in Christchurch as New Zealand host France in the first-ever Nations Championship fixture before attention turns to Tokyo, Cardiff, and finally Argentina for an action-packed day of world-class rugby.

Every fixture has the potential to produce memorable moments as the world’s leading rugby nations battle for the first Nations Championship title.

Ireland Begin in Australia

Ireland’s campaign starts with a tough test against the Wallabies in Sydney. The squad then faces Japan before finishing the July window with a huge clash against the All Blacks in Auckland.

With Andy Farrell’s side looking to make a strong start in the inaugural competition, Irish fans will be hoping for another memorable summer on the international stage.

Why This Matters for Rugby Fans

The Nations Championship is designed to bring together the best teams from both hemispheres in a competition where every match counts. Instead of standalone summer tours, supporters can now enjoy a structured tournament that builds towards an overall champion.

For travelling fans, it also opens up incredible opportunities to experience rugby in some of the world’s most iconic destinations – from Sydney and Christchurch to Johannesburg, Buenos Aires, and Tokyo.

Follow Rugby Around the World with Irish Rugby Tours

At Irish Rugby Tours, we’re passionate about helping rugby fans and teams experience the game beyond their home stadium.

Whether you’re planning rugby travel to Ireland to experience the electric atmosphere of an international fixture, organising one of our tailored rugby tours to Ireland for your club or school, supporting your national team overseas, or exploring exciting destinations like Argentina, South Africa, or Australia, we create unforgettable rugby travel experiences both on and off the field.

As the Nations Championship gets underway, we’ll be following every match and looking ahead to the incredible travel opportunities international rugby continues to offer.

Thinking about your next rugby adventure? Get a free, tailored quote!

📞 +353 1 685 6277
📧 info@irishrugbytours.com

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