Visa has returned to the Rugby World Cup commercial portfolio as a principal partner and official payment technology partner for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029 in Australia, securing rights across two consecutive editions of the global tournament.
The partnership, announced by World Rugby, will see Visa provide payment technology at official tournament venues while gaining access to fan engagement, premium experiences and other commercial opportunities across both events. Visa will also become the presenting partner of the Player of the Match award, giving the brand a recurring association with standout performances throughout the tournaments.
World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer Michel Poussau said, “We are delighted to welcome Visa back to the Rugby World Cup family as Principal Partner for the next two editions in 2027 and 2029 in Australia. Visa’s partnership underlines the strength and global appeal of these tournaments, as well as our shared ambition to deliver iconic events shaped by innovation, accessibility and unforgettable fan experiences.
“Its support for both tournaments is a powerful statement of belief in the future of rugby and the equal opportunity ahead for the men’s and women’s game. Through this partnership, eligible Visa cardholders will benefit from exclusive access opportunities, while Visa’s technology and expertise will help us enhance the journey for fans in Australia and around the world.”
Visa Regional President, Asia Pacific Stephen Karpin added, “Some events have their own gravitational pull. Rugby World Cup is one of them. People don’t simply follow it; they travel for it and come together in ways that extend far beyond the match.
“Recent data showed cross-border Visa transactions in host cities of a major sporting event increased nearly 20% year on year. Through Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029, we’re proud to help deliver seamless payment experiences that enable fans to focus on the moments that matter, while supporting the movement of people, commerce and opportunity.”
Visa’s return adds another global brand to an increasingly valuable Rugby World Cup commercial portfolio. Coca-Cola joined Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 as an official partner and exclusive non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverage partner, while Emirates has extended its relationship with World Rugby through 2035, covering every Rugby World Cup during the period. Unilever is also an official partner across the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups through 2029.
For Visa, the Rugby World Cup partnership sits alongside a broader sports portfolio spanning properties including the Davis Cup, EA SPORTS, Red Bull Racing, Newcastle United and the Asian Football Confederation.
Visa’s association with Rugby World Cup also has historical depth, with the company previously holding global sponsorship rights at the 1999, 2003 and 2007 editions.
The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will feature 24 teams and 52 matches from October 1 to November 13, while the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029 will be the first edition of the women’s tournament hosted in Australia. The financial terms of Visa’s latest agreement have not been disclosed.
