With less than three years to go in the build-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, World Rugby have unveiled the tournament’s official logo and vibrant visual identity.

The announcement heralds the dawn of a new age for rugby union and incorporates inclusivity, excitement, and ambition.

The World Cup, which will be held from October 1 to November 13 2027, will see 24 nations competing for the first time in the tournament’s history, with qualifiers set to begin in January 2025.

Rugby World Cup to be expanded from 16 to 24 nations

The global showpiece’s expansion from 16 to 24 nations will demonstrate the game’s commitment to expanding its presence throughout the world, increasing participation and interest in rugby union globally, and enabling more nations to participate in the sport’s main event.

The competition’s official brand captures Australia as a country which showcases light and energy, reflects the spirit of its people and also acknowledges and celebrates its rich heritage along with the nation’s social and cultural identity.

The logo draws inspiration from Australia’s natural beauty and has an orange hue which reflects the nation’s sun and distinctive earth. The lines are inspired by the coastlines, layered rock formatives, and winding rivers.

The tapestry behind the logo was designed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist Riki Salam, who took his inspiration from First Nations styles from across Australia.

That design symbolises the country’s land, sea and sky, which are three elements of spiritual significance in First Nations culture. Those components reflects Australia’s diverse geography, which symbolises a united nation.

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“With permission, cultural knowledge and deep respect, our goal was to represent the diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands cultures from across Australia in a contemporary design,” said Salam.

“I’m truly impressed with the outcome and how seamlessly my work integrates into the Rugby World Cup 2027 visual identity, while also contributing to greater global awareness of Indigenous peoples and cultures.”

Rugby World Cup Australia managing director Chris Stanley is confident the country will make a success of the global showpiece which will be held in the country for the second time after it also hosted the 2003 tournament which was won by England.

‘Excited to unveil the visual identity for Australia 2027’

“As preparations gather momentum, we are excited to unveil the visual identity for Australia 2027 bringing the tournament to life for all rugby enthusiasts out there,” he said.

“With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, Australia will be a fantastic backdrop to kick off rugby’s new era of entertainment and openness, and we look forward to welcoming rugby fans and newcomers to this nationwide celebration of rugby.”

World Rugby chairperson Brett Robinson added: “It is a powerful statement about the future of our sport and the way we can grow the game by making it even more inclusive and entertaining.

“The expanded format, combined with a fresh, bold vision and visual identity, will showcase the very best of rugby to audiences worldwide and cement its own place in Rugby World Cup history with a fantastic display of Australian cultures and a positive rugby and societal legacy for Australians and the sport across the region.”

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Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/countdown-to-2027-rugby-world-cup-in-full-swing-as-official-logo-and-visual-identity-revealed