Nov 22, 2024, 11:58 AM ET
The grandest stage in international rugby is the Rugby World Cup. Twelve teams automatically qualify for the 20-team tournament based on their performance in the previous World Cup, which has been held every four years since 1987.
The top three finishers in each of the four group stages of the previous World Cup automatically qualify for the next tournament as seeded teams. The qualification process for the other spots is region-based, with eight of the 20 total teams reserved for Europe, five for Oceania, three for the Americas, two for Africa and one for Asia. The final spot is determined by an intercontinental playoff.
The winner of the Rugby World Cup hoists the coveted Webb Ellis Cup, named for William Webb Ellis. New Zealand won the first Rugby World Cup after defeating France in the final. No nation has raised rugby union’s most prized possession more than South Africa.
South Africa won its fourth Webb Ellis Cup in 2023, becoming the second back-to-back Rugby World Cup champion. New Zealand was the first, winning it all in 2011 and again in 2015.
Check out more all-time stats on the Rugby World Cup below.
Rugby World Cup titles
4: South Africa
3: New Zealand
2: Australia
1: England
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
All-time Rugby World Cup winners
2023: South Africa
2019: South Africa
2015: New Zealand
2011: New Zealand
2007: South Africa
2003: England
1999: Australia
1995: South Africa
1991: Australia
1987: New Zealand
Rugby World Cup final appearances
New Zealand, 5
South Africa, 4
Australia, 4
France, 4
England, 4
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