World Rugby has unveiled the complete schedule for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, set to take place from August 22 to September 20. This tournament will bring together six dynamic teams: Canada, Fiji, Japan, Samoa, Tonga, and the USA, all competing not only for the title but also for a direct qualification spot for the upcoming Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. Defending champions Fiji will kick off the tournament with a home match against Tonga on August 30 in Suva.
The Pacific Nations Cup, reimagined in 2024, aims to provide consistent competition for Pacific nations and enhance their high-performance programs. The 2025 edition maintains this goal, emphasizing player welfare and reducing travel distances for participating teams. Pool A features Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, while Pool B includes Canada, Japan, and the USA. Each nation is guaranteed at least three matches, including a significant home game, encouraging fan engagement and raising the sport’s profile locally.
For the first time, the Final Series of the tournament will be hosted in the United States, marking a significant milestone in USA Rugby’s journey towards hosting the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033. The tournament will feature competitive fixtures across five weekends, all within the southern hemisphere international window.
Key match-ups in the pool stage include the highly anticipated match between Canada and the USA in Calgary and a rivalry clash between Fiji and Tonga. The knockout rounds will take place in the US cities of Denver and Salt Lake City, adding excitement to the tournament as teams vie for critical World Cup qualification.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson expressed that the Pacific Nations Cup is crucial for fostering a sustainable and competitive rugby environment. USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren highlighted the event’s role in building American rugby’s profile and engaging new fans ahead of the upcoming World Cups. With the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup approaching, fans can look forward to a thrilling month of high-stakes rugby as the participating teams aim to secure their spots in the next Rugby World Cup.
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