World Rugby has announced a multi-year landmark partnership renewal with Gilbert, a British sports equipment manufacturer, extending the association through to 2033.
Along with this, Gilbert has also unveiled the official match ball design for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. Gilbert will continue to be the official ball supplier for all World Rugby 15s championships and Rugby World Cups, guaranteeing that the men’s and women’s tournaments in Australia (2027 & 2029) and the United States (2031 & 2033) will use Gilbert’s world-class match balls.
The official Rugby World Cup 2027 ball embraces the event’s dynamic character, with the iconic event emblem and a brilliant orange tint inspired by Australia’s sun, as well as unique earth tones. This design captures the warmth, enthusiasm, and character of the host country.
It’s here.
— Gilbert Rugby 🏉 (@GILBERT_RUGBY) December 1, 2025
The Official Rugby World Cup 2027 Match Ball Design has just dropped 👀#RWC2027 #Gilbert #Rugby pic.twitter.com/Bcvvk0HhZr
Fans will be able to purchase the first official balls around Christmas 2025, with a broader choice of commemorative licensed merchandise available worldwide in 2026.
World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer, Michel Poussau, said, “World Rugby is proud to continue its trusted partnership with Gilbert, ensuring that the official match balls for all our 15s competitions, including the prestigious Rugby World Cups, are of the highest quality through to 2033. Since 1995, Gilbert has been at the heart of our game, and once again they have delivered a vibrant and distinctive design for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. This ball not only provides the world’s best players with the perfect tool to perform at the highest level, but also enhances the experience for fans through cutting-edge technology.”
Gilbert Rugby Commercial CEO, Richard Gray, said, “We are delighted to be renewing our long and successful relationship with World Rugby and Rugby World Cup. This represents a ringing endorsement of the Gilbert brand and product and the wider brand strength and service we offer to the world’s best competitions and players. We are excited to grow our partnership with World Rugby and to bring a wonderful official match ball design to rugby fans around the world. Rugby World Cup tournaments are the absolute pinnacle of our sport and always such a wonderful occasion and a fantastic opportunity to bring new and existing fans together and celebrate rugby.”
Gilbert has been associated with rugby for nearly two centuries, being established in 1823, the same year the sport was formed. This renewal solidifies Gilbert’s position as the world’s number one rugby ball brand, extending its unrivalled connection with the sport’s highest-profile international events and top club championships in both men’s and women’s rugby.
