Visa Secures Principal Partner and Payment Technology Role for Australia Rugby World Cups

World Rugby has secured a partnership with digital payments leader Visa, appointing the enterprise as Principal Partner and Official Payment Technology Partner for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029 in Australia.

The multi-tournament agreement reinforces the commercial scale of rugby union’s premier global properties while establishing a secure payment framework across venues. A dedicated 48-hour priority ticket sale will open to eligible Visa cardholders from 12:00 AEST on 28 September until 30 September 2026, ahead of general sales starting on 1 October 2026.

Beyond venue payment processing, Visa will secure brand integration as the presenting partner of the Player of the Match award across both competitions. The collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to advancing both men’s and women’s elite rugby divisions equally, leveraging Australia’s hosting duties to drive long-term commercial expansion across the region.

Commenting on the corporate alignment, World Rugby chief revenue officer, Michel Poussau, said: “We are delighted to welcome Visa back to the Rugby World Cup family as Principal Partner for the next two editions in 2027 and 2029 in Australia.”

“Visa’s partnership underlines the strength and global appeal of these tournaments, as well as our shared ambition to deliver iconic events shaped by innovation, accessibility and unforgettable fan experiences.

“Its support for both tournaments is a powerful statement of belief in the future of rugby and the equal opportunity ahead for the men’s and women’s game.

“Through this partnership, eligible Visa cardholders will benefit from exclusive access opportunities, while Visa’s technology and expertise will help us enhance the journey for fans in Australia and around the world,” Poussau said.

Echoing the commercial rationale, Visa Regional president – Asia Pacific, Stephen Karpin, added: “Some events have their own gravitational pull. Rugby World Cup is one of them. People don’t simply follow it, they travel for it and come together in ways that extend far beyond the match.”

“Recent data showed cross-border Visa transactions in host cities of a major sporting event increased nearly 20% year on year.

“Through Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2029, we’re proud to help deliver seamless payment experiences that enable fans to focus on the moments that matter, while supporting the movement of people, commerce and opportunity,” Karpin noted.

Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is rugby union’s pinnacle event contested every four years by the world’s best nations.

For six weeks from 1 October to 13 November 2027, Australia will welcome the world to a nationwide festival of rugby, celebrating its rich culture and heritage, and kicking off a new era of rugby that will have a positive impact for Australia, Oceania and the game globally.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.