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Finally, the wait is over. The Autumn Nations Series returns this November, bringing four weeks of world-class international rugby to kick off the 2025 26 season in style.
From November 1st through 29th, the Northern Hemisphere hosts the Southern giants in what’s become rugby’s most intense month. England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy welcome New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Argentina, Fiji, Japan, Samoa, and Tonga for a full slate of test matches that actually matter.
This isn’t just rugby for the sake of tradition. With the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia already looming, these matches carry serious weight. World rankings, squad combinations, and tournament seeding are all on the line. In other words, every result counts.
To understand what’s at stake this year, you only need to look back at the 2024 Autumn Nations Series. It was packed with drama. Australia stunned England 42 to 37 at Twickenham in one of the games of the year. Meanwhile, France edged New Zealand 30 to 29 in Paris, proving they can beat anyone when the Stade de France is rocking.
South Africa, on the other hand, went unbeaten. They took down England 29 to 20 and dismantled Wales 45 to 12. The Springboks reminded everyone exactly why they’re world champions.
More importantly, the big story from last year was the dominance of the Southern Hemisphere. This time around, the Northern sides are looking for payback.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup is less than two years away, which means that every test match from now until then carries extra meaning.
For starters, world rankings directly affect World Cup seeding. A strong showing this autumn could mean a more favourable pool draw in 2027. On the flip side, a poor run could land a team in a brutal group before the tournament even begins.
Beyond the rankings, these matches are critical for building squads. Coaches are experimenting with new combinations, introducing fresh talent, and finding out who can handle the pressure of test rugby. Players who rise this November could end up leading their countries in Australia.
Additionally, there’s momentum to consider. Teams that finish strong this autumn roll into the 2026 Six Nations with real belief. Those who fall flat will spend the next few months answering questions they’d rather avoid.
Simply put, these aren’t warm-ups. They’re auditions. And every team knows it.
Week 1 (November 1 to 2): Ireland vs New Zealand
Saturday, November 1st, Soldier Field, Chicago, 20:10 GMT
This one kicks things off with serious intent. Ireland take on New Zealand in Chicago, and it’s already being billed as the match of the round. Last year, the All Blacks edged Ireland in Dublin. Now the Irish get their shot at revenge on neutral ground, in front of a roaring crowd in the US. Expect fireworks.
Week 2 (November 8 to 9): France vs South Africa
Saturday, November 8th, Stade de France, 20:10 GMT
Next, world champions South Africa head to Paris for a clash with France that’s always explosive. The Springboks will be hungry for revenge after recent defeats, but France at home are a different animal. It’s physical. It’s tactical. It’s heavyweight rugby at its best.
Week 3 (November 15 to 16): England vs New Zealand
Saturday, November 15th, Twickenham, 15:10 GMT
Midway through the series, the pressure ramps up. England host New Zealand in a battle that always delivers. Last autumn, the All Blacks took the win. This time, Twickenham will be packed, and Steve Borthwick’s men will be out to flip the script.
Week 4 (November 22 to 23): Ireland vs South Africa
Saturday, November 22nd, Aviva Stadium, 17:40 GMT
Finally, the headline act. Ireland welcome the Springboks to Dublin in what’s already being called the match of the series. After South Africa knocked them out of the 2023 World Cup, Ireland will want this one badly. Two of the smartest teams in the world, going blow for blow, with real stakes. Unmissable.
Four weeks. The best teams on the planet. Matches that shape World Cups and make legends.
You already know where you should be watching this.
Book your table at Belushi’s now before someone else takes it.
