Story by David Skippers -
Planet Rugby
The Accor Stadium in Sydney has been chosen as the venue to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup final while no matches will take place in Melbourne, according to Australian media reports.
Unnamed sources confirmed that the Accor Stadium, which can seat 82,000 spectators and was the venue for the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000 and the 2003 Rugby World Cup final between England and the Wallabies, will host the final as well as the bronze medal match and both semi-finals at the global showpiece in 2027.
The state of Victoria will reportedly not host any matches at the 2027 Rugby World Cup despite having three venues the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Marvel Stadium and AAMI Park who have hosted rugby matches in the past.
Melbourne snubbed
According to a News Corp report, Victoria has been completely shut-out of the entire tournament after the state government withdrew its bid in a futile protest at the decision to cut the Rebels from Super Rugby, something which World Rugby had no involvement in.
The iconic MCG has a capacity of 100,000 and is set to host a Test between the Wallabies and the British & Irish Lions later this year which made it a candidate to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup Final but that wont be happening.
Meanwhile, former Rugby Australia chief executive John ONeill, who was at the helm during the 2003 World Cup, believes Sydney is the perfect venue.
Its not a natural fit
Im not suggesting that Melbourne isnt a sensational sports destination for a moment but in reality, for the Rugby World Cup, its not a natural fit, he told News Corp.
History and tribalism indelibly promotes Sydney as an event and rugby mecca so its overwhelmingly compelling.
Perths Optus Stadium is considered the favourite to host the 2027 Rugby World Cups opening match on October 1.
