The Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) has introduced a new format this year, generating significant interest. This change is in collaboration with the six participating nations: Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Japan, Canada, and the United States of America.
World Rugby’s objective is to enhance global rugby competitiveness in anticipation of the expanded men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027.
This year’s PNC is divided into two pools: Pool A includes Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, while Pool B consists of Japan, USA, and Canada. Over a three-week pool stage from August 23 to September 7, each team will play two matches, one of which will be a home game. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semifinals.
The elimination rounds start on September 14 with the 5th place playoff at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, Japan. This will be followed by the first semi-final on the same day and at the same venue, while the second semi-final will be held there the next day. The tournament will conclude on September 21 with the third place play-off and the grand final at the Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka, Japan.
The opening match on August 23 will feature the Flying Fijians against a formidable Manu Samoa team at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva at 6 pm. This year’s competition will also test new rugby laws and implement some law changes, adding an extra element of intrigue.
Now in its 17th year, the PNC has been a significant event on the rugby calendar. The Flying Fijians are the defending champions, having secured a record six titles, including four consecutive victories from 2015 to 2018, with their latest win at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground in Tokyo, Japan.