Rugby Rivals: New Zealand and South Africa Plan Major Changes

The annual four-nation Rugby Championship, featuring New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and Argentina, may be downgraded or scrapped to maximize the commercial value of the New Zealand-South Africa rivalry. Both nations plan bilateral tours starting in 2026, marketing these as 'The Greatest Rivalry'.

New plans to maximize the commercial value of the intense rugby rivalry between New Zealand and South Africa could result in the annual four-nation competition, The Rugby Championship, being downgraded or scrapped, according to top South African rugby official Rian Oberholzer. This southern hemisphere championship, initially launched in 1996, includes Australia and Argentina as well.

With global rugby dynamics shifting, Oberholzer suggested that the Rugby Championship might be reduced to a single round or abolished. From 2026, New Zealand and South Africa are set to embark on detailed bilateral tours, starting with the All Blacks spending eight weeks in South Africa. This includes four test matches and clashes against provincial franchises under the banner 'The Greatest Rivalry'.

There's potential for one of these tests to be held at a neutral venue like Twickenham in London or in the U.S., venues that have attracted significant crowds previously. Oberholzer emphasized the uniqueness of this rivalry, pointing towards future discussions on commercial rights and broadcasting deals. Following suit, South Africa will tour New Zealand in 2030. Additionally, South Africa is committed to playing Argentina and Australia annually.

A notable change announced last year is the introduction of a new competition between tier-one northern and southern hemisphere nations, to be held every alternate year from 2026. The proposed 'World League' aims to generate more revenue and add significance to international fixtures traditionally considered friendly.

(With inputs from agencies.)