The Rugby World Cup 2027 is drawing closer, and as defending champions. South Africa’s Springboks know they will be the team everyone wants to beat. After back-to-back triumphs, they are chasing a historic third straight title. That kind of ambition naturally paints a target on their backs.
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Traditional heavyweights such as France, England, New Zealand, Ireland, and Australia are all building toward 2027 with the clear intention of stopping the Springboks’ run. The big question is: who poses the greatest danger?
Some believe France stands above the rest as South Africa’s main rival. Former Springbok great Victor Matfield has suggested that Les Bleus could be the biggest threat in 2027, and it is easy to understand why.
France has developed impressive squad depth in recent seasons and has been remarkably consistent at the Test level. They combine physical power with flair, and their performances over the last few years show a team that has matured tactically and mentally.
Yet focusing solely on France risks oversimplifying what promises to be one of the most demanding World Cups ever staged. The 2027 tournament will feature an expanded format, including a Round of 16 and potentially four knockout matches for the teams that go all the way. That structure alone raises the degree of difficulty.
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Rugby World Cup: Italy’s Evolution Demands Respect
Instead of navigating three knockout games, as in previous editions. The eventual champions may have to survive four consecutive high-pressure weekends against top-class opposition. That means South Africa’s path to a third straight title is unlikely to hinge on just one rival. Instead, it could require beating several elite sides in succession.
Italy, for example, is no longer a team that can be dismissed as mere underdogs. Head coach Rassie Erasmus has already highlighted their upward trajectory, and recent results back up that assessment.
Italy defeated Australia 26–19 in Udine last November, a result that sent a strong message. They then opened their Six Nations campaign with a composed 18–15 victory over Scotland in Rome, showing tactical maturity and resilience under pressure.
The Azzurri also pushed South Africa hard in Turin last year before eventually losing 32–14. For long stretches of that contest, they were competitive and well organized. Drawn in Pool B alongside the Springboks, Italy could significantly influence the shape of the knockout bracket.
A surprise pool defeat for South Africa would dramatically alter their playoff route. In that sense, Italy is not just a dark horse; they are capable of disrupting the entire tournament landscape. England is another side regaining momentum at the right time.
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Rugby World Cup Final: England’s Resurgence Under Borthwick
Under Steve Borthwick, they have rediscovered structure, physical dominance, and attacking clarity. A commanding Six Nations victory over Wales underlined their improvement, particularly up front. More importantly, England seems to have rebuilt their ability to perform consistently in high-stakes matches.
If England top Pool F, they could face the runner-up from Pool B in the Round of 16. That scenario opens the door to a possible early clash with South Africa. Given England’s proud World Cup history and their reputation for peaking at global tournaments, that is a matchup the Springboks would not take lightly.
Then there are New Zealand and Australia. Both are currently navigating transitional periods. Introducing new combinations and refining their systems. But history shows that when a Rugby World Cup arrives, those transitional phases often give way to something far more formidable.
The All Blacks, in particular, have been the gold standard of consistency in Test rugby for decades. Writing them off in favor of any single European contender ignores a long track record of excellence. When knockout rugby begins, New Zealand’s composure, skill execution, and big-match temperament frequently rise to the surface.
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