(Photo: World Rugby)
More than 750,000 tickets for the Rugby World Cup tournament to be held in Australia next year have already been snapped up.
The tournament is the biggest to date and consists of 24 teams, 52 matches and 2.5 million tickets.
World Rugby says the record start for ticket sales already surpasses every previous version of the tournament, as fans jump to secure a place at one of the world’s most iconic sporting events.
More than half of the tickets were sold within the first six hours of the pre-sale opening, reflecting the sustained and wide demand for tickets for group and knockout matches in all seven host cities.
So far, the most sought after tickets are for the matches between Australia and New Zealand, Ireland vs Scotland and knockout matches.
As expected, Australian fans are at the front of the ticket queue.
These countries pick up tickets:
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- New Zealand
- Japan
- France
- Ireland
- VSA
- South Africa
- Chili
- You have
A Springbok supporter at the rugby union test between Italy and South Africa last weekend. (Photo: Stefano Rellandini/ AFP)
Rugby supporters who could not buy a ticket during this round will get another chance in May.
World Rugby says a phased approach is being followed to give fans worldwide the opportunity to apply for tickets, with availability for every match in every price category. A selection process will be used if demand exceeds supply to ensure everyone gets a fair chance.
“Selling more than 750,000 tickets 18 months before the tournament is a significant milestone and indicates the excitement that is building in Australia and internationally,” said Chris Stanley, managing director of the World Cup.
(Photo: Guillem Sartorio/AFP)
“The great demand in every host city and worldwide shows the appetite for a truly international celebration of rugby. The tournament will bring communities together and welcome fans from all over the world to enjoy rugby at its best.”
Accessibility remains important with more than a million tickets being sold for less than AUD100 (about R1 160).
Supporters are also reminded that tickets can only be purchased through official channels. An official resale platform will be made available later.