Exciting Preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup: A Guide for Irish Fans As the countdown to the 2027 Rugby World Cup begins, Irish fans are preparing for early mornings and considerable expenses. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of this thrilling event.
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The anticipation is palpable among Irish rugby fans as details of the2027 Rugby World Cupin Australia begin to emerge. With ticket prices and match schedules now available, supporters face two key realities: early mornings and significant expenses. World Rugby has released the complete schedule for the pool stage, indicating that all kick-off times will align with Australian local time.
For viewers in Ireland, this means a series of early starts and costly travel for those planning to attend.
Ireland finds itself inPool Calongside strong competitors such as Argentina, Fiji, Georgia, and Uruguay. As the tournament approaches, Irish fans can start planning their attendance and budgeting for what promises to be a memorable experience.
Match schedule and kick-off times
The three matches Ireland will play in the pool stage are set across key Australian cities: Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. The following table presents the fixtures, including local Australian kick-off times and their equivalents in Irish Standard Time (IST):
| Fixture | Venue | Local Kick-Off (AUS) | Irish Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ireland vs.
Portugal |
Sydney Football Stadium | Mon 4 Oct – 17:15 | 08:15 (Ireland) |
| Argentina vs. Ireland | Brisbane Stadium | Mon 11 Oct – 18:45 | 09:45 (Ireland) |
| Ireland vs. Uruguay | Docklands Stadium, Melbourne | Sun 17 Oct – 14:45 | 05:45 (Ireland) |
The schedule highlights that Irish fans will need to set their alarms early. Each match kicks off before 10 AM Irish time, creating a unique atmosphere for supporters eager to watch their team compete.
Understanding ticket prices
Regarding match attendance, ticket prices have been announced in Australian dollars and include Goods and Services Tax (GST). The price range for pool stage tickets, when converted to euros, is as follows:
- Category A:€350–€370
- Category B:€270–€290
- Category C:€185–€205
- Category D:€120–€135
- Standing:€55–€65
Child tickets are available at reduced prices across all categories, making this event somewhat more accessible for families compared to past tournaments. However,
Rising costs in the knockout stages
As the tournament progresses to the knockout rounds, fans should expect a marked increase in ticket prices. For example, quarter-final tickets can reach up to €520, semi-final tickets may exceed €700, and final tickets could climb to €1,300. For Irish supporters hoping to see Ireland advance, the cost of tickets alone could surpass €2,000, excluding travel and accommodation expenses.
Travel considerations for supporters
The2027 Rugby World Cupis shaping up to be a destination event, unlike the upcoming tournament in France. For Irish fans planning to attend, return flights are estimated to cost between €1,400 and €1,800. Given the geographical distribution of venues across Australia, internal flights will also be necessary, further increasing
Accommodation prices are anticipated to rise during match weeks, underscoring the importance of early planning. This World Cup will demand careful financial preparation, especially for those wishing to attend multiple matches.
Embracing the early mornings
Despite the early kick-off times, there is a silver lining for Irish fans. Pubs, clubs, and supporter groups can transform these morning matches into lively events with organized breakfasts and watch parties. For those traveling to Australia, the excitement of being part of packed stadiums, enjoying high-quality facilities, and witnessing Ireland compete at the highest level will make the costs worth it.
Ireland finds itself inPool Calongside strong competitors such as Argentina, Fiji, Georgia, and Uruguay. As the tournament approaches, Irish fans can start planning their attendance and budgeting for what promises to be a memorable experience.0
