Ireland to Face Australia in Historic Canberra Test Match

Ireland is set to play its first-ever test match in Canberra against Australia on September 18, 2027, at the GIO Stadium, as part of the preparations for the Rugby World Cup. This match will occur 13 days before the Wallabies kick off the World Cup against Hong Kong, China, in Perth on October 1, 2027.

Ireland's opening match will take place three days later on October 4, 2027, in Sydney against Portugal. Australia has previously won five test matches at GIO Stadium, including a 45-20 victory over Argentina in 2017.

The stadium also hosted the British and Irish Lions, where Australia secured a 36-24 win during last summer's tour. Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh expressed excitement about this historic match, marking the first test against Ireland in Canberra in ten years.

Waugh thanked ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry for their support during this significant period for rugby in the country.