The venue has reportedly been confirmed for the 2027 Rugby World Cup (RWC) final, with a formal announcement set to be made at the end of January.
According to News Corp, Accor Stadium in Sydney has been named as the venue to host the 2027 RWC Final after it was previously the venue for the 2000 Olympics and 2003 RWC Final between Australia and England.
It is understood that Accor Stadium will also host the third-place bronze medal match and both semi-final matches with Victoria being overlooked despite them holding three different venues - Melbourne Cricket Ground, Marvel Stadium and AAMI Park.
“I'm not suggesting that Melbourne isn't a sensational sports destination for a moment but in reality, for the Rugby World Cup, it's not a natural fit,” former Rugby Australia Chief Executive John O'Neill told News Corp.
“History and tribalism indelibly promotes Sydney as an event and rugby mecca so it's overwhelmingly compelling.”
Able to seat 82,000 spectators compared to the MCG's 100,000 spectators, Victoria's shock exclusion comes after they failed to secure the FIFA Women's World Cup final in 2023 and will cost them a ton of tourism dollars.
“Victoria continues to secure internationally exclusive major events – giving locals and visitors unparalleled opportunities to experience some of the best sporting and music experiences Australia has to offer,” a Victorian Government spokesperson added.
“What other state has the Boxing Day Test, an international grand slam, a grand prix and the AFL Grand Final – and that's just sport!
“We talk to all sorts of license holders and our conversations are commercial in confidence.”
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