Gilbert Rugby
World Rugby announced an "exciting new era" with the unveiling of a new bi-annual international competition from 2026.
It will comprise a top division of 12 teams from the Six Nations and the southern hemisphere's Rugby Championship.
Two more countries, possibly Fiji and Japan, would be invited to make up the dozen with matches being played in July and November.
A second division also made up of a dozen teams with promotion and relegation comes into operation in 2030.
World Rugby said in a statement on Tuesday that in the women’s game, the decision means clearly defined global and regional player release periods for the first time with no domestic competition overlap.
This opens the “way to a harmonious structure that promotes opportunity and growth ahead of an expanded 16-team Rugby World Cup in 2025.”
The reform follows extensive consultation with the professional game, including regions, unions, domestic and international competitions, and a detailed evaluation of the playing, commercial, and fan landscape.
Implementation of the agreed package will continue to involve dialogue with all parties.
World Rugby Chairperson Sir Bill Beaumont said it was fitting to finish Rugby World Cup 2023, the sport’s greatest celebration of togetherness, with the sport’s greatest feat of togetherness.
"Agreement on the men’s and women’s global calendars and their content is the most significant development in the sport since the game went professional. An historic moment for our sport that sets us up collectively for success."
"We now look forward to an exciting new era for our sport commencing in 2026," Beaumont said.
