The 2024 Pacific Nations Cup is set to introduce an exciting new format. This year’s tournament, organized by World Rugby in collaboration with six participating unions—Canada, Fiji, Japan, Samoa, Tonga, and the USA—aims to enhance the competitiveness of global rugby as preparations begin for the expanded Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027.
The competition has been structured into two pools. Pool A includes Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, while Pool B consists of Japan, the USA, and Canada. Each team will compete in two matches during a three-week pool stage, scheduled from August 23rd to September 7th, with each team playing one home game.
The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the semi-finals. The elimination rounds begin on September 14th with the fifth-place playoff at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo, Japan. The first semi-final will occur on the same day at the same venue, while the second semi-final is set for the following day.
The tournament will culminate on September 21st with both the third-place playoff and the Grand Final at the Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka, Japan. The opening match on August 23rd will feature the Fiji Water Flying Fijians facing a formidable Manu Samoa team at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, starting at 6 PM.
This year’s tournament will also test new rugby laws and introduce some law changes, adding an extra layer of excitement. The Pacific Nations Cup, now in its 17th edition, has become a vital part of the rugby calendar. The Fiji Water Flying Fijians, who are the defending champions, clinched the title last year at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground in Tokyo, marking their record sixth win in the competition, including four consecutive victories from 2015 to 2018.
As anticipation grows, both fans and teams are eager for a tournament that promises not only high-quality rugby but also a vital platform for future international contests. The revamped format and new regulations are expected to present fresh challenges and showcase the evolving nature of the sport.