Rugby World Cups Coming to Africa Through 2029 Deal

Rugby fans across Africa just got the green light to watch their heroes compete on the world's biggest stage for the next four years.

World Rugby announced a major broadcast agreement with CANAL+ Group that brings Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 and Women's Rugby World Cup 2029 to SuperSport on DStv throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. The deal ensures millions of fans can watch every match live as the sport expands its global reach.

The timing couldn't be better for African rugby. South Africa will defend their championship title in Australia in 2027, aiming for a record fifth world cup victory. Zimbabwe's Sables are returning to the world stage for the first time since 1991, marking a milestone moment for the nation and proof that rugby development across the region is gaining real momentum.

The 2027 tournament represents a new chapter for the sport itself. For the first time ever, 24 teams will compete instead of 16, with a new round of 16 knockout stage giving emerging nations more chances to shine. More teams means more meaningful matches and more opportunities for underdogs to make history.

Women's rugby gets equal billing in this partnership. The 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup follows the record-breaking 2025 edition that shattered attendance and viewership records. South Africa made history as the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, inspiring young players across the continent.

The agreement also covers the World Rugby Junior World Championship and Pacific Nations Cup, giving fans access to the full pipeline of international rugby talent.

The Ripple Effect

This deal represents more than just broadcast rights. It reflects Africa's growing importance as a strategic rugby market, with rising participation rates and stronger competitive performance at elite levels. When kids across the continent can watch their national teams compete, they see themselves in those jerseys. That visibility creates the next generation of players and fans.

David Mignot, CEO of CANAL+ Africa and MultiChoice, emphasized putting subscribers first by delivering the best sports content from across the globe. World Rugby's Chief Revenue Officer Michel Poussau called it a major step in ensuring fans can watch, follow and engage more deeply with the sport they love.

Young athletes in Lagos, Nairobi, and Harare will now watch their heroes live, dreaming of their own moment under the stadium lights.