South Africa has already started laying the foundation for their Rugby World Cup title defence in 2027, with plans well in motion. The Boks currently enjoy a solid lead in the World Rugby Rankings — sitting 2.42 points ahead of second-placed New Zealand and 2.95 points above Ireland in third. Holding onto this strong position will be crucial, especially with the World Cup pool draw scheduled for December 2025.
This upcoming draw carries extra weight because it will determine the seedings for the newly expanded 24-team World Cup in Australia. Unlike past editions, this will be the first time all qualified teams will be confirmed before the draw, bringing more fairness and relevance to the process. The rankings at the end of the November 2025 international window will decide who makes it into the top seedings.
Next year will also see all qualification events completed, as nations across the globe compete in regional tournaments for 12 open spots. The 2027 tournament promises to be the most inclusive World Cup yet, with at least one team representing each World Rugby region.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson emphasized the significance of this next phase, calling it a celebration of ambition and the game’s global growth. “This is shaping up to be a truly special World Cup, not just because of the new format, but because of the spirit of inclusion and competition it brings,” he said.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup will introduce a new round of 16 and feature a total of 52 matches — more action, more teams, and more excitement.
As for the Springboks, 2025 is packed with crucial test matches that will help shape their ranking and team cohesion heading into the World Cup. Here’s a look at the schedule leading up to their title defence:
Springboks’ 2025 Fixtures:
- 28 June vs Barbarians – DHL Stadium, Cape Town (17:05)
- 5 July vs Italy – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria (17:10)
- 12 July vs Italy – Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha (17:10)
- 19 July vs Georgia – Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit (17:10)
- 16 August vs Australia – Ellis Park, Johannesburg (17:10)
- 23 August vs Australia – DHL Stadium, Cape Town (17:10)
- 6 September vs New Zealand – Auckland (09:05)
- 13 September vs New Zealand – Wellington (09:05)
- 27 September vs Argentina – Kings Park, Durban (17:10)
- 4 October vs Argentina – London (15:00)
- 8 November vs France – Paris (Time TBC)
- 15 November vs Italy – Turin (Time TBC)
- 22 November vs Ireland – Dublin (19:40)
- 29 November vs Wales – Cardiff (17:10)
With a jam-packed year ahead, every game counts. The Springboks aren’t just defending a title — they’re setting the tone for a bold new chapter in world rugby.
