Rather than playing teams from their own hemisphere, every nation plays all six teams from the opposite hemisphere across two windows:

Three matches in July (Southern Hemisphere hosts)

Three matches in November (Northern Hemisphere hosts)

Teams earn league points using the standard rugby bonus-point system. At the end of the six rounds, the teams are ranked within their own hemisphere, with the first-placed northern team facing the first-placed southern team in the championship final. The remaining nations also play classification matches (2nd vs 2nd, 3rd vs 3rd and so on) during Finals Weekend in London. 

The Big Guns

Several teams head into the inaugural tournament as serious contenders.

South Africa – The reigning world champions have incredible squad depth, a dominant forward pack and arguably the best bench in world rugby.

New Zealand – The All Blacks are still one of the sport’s traditional powerhouses and are always capable of beating anyone.

France – Blessed with world-class talent led by stars such as Antoine Dupont, France have become one of the most complete teams in international rugby.

Ireland – A consistently elite side with outstanding coaching and structure.

England – Rapidly improving with a young squad capable of challenging for the title if they find consistency.

Who are the favourites?

South Africa are slight favourites. Their recent Test dominance, physicality, tactical flexibility and exceptional squad depth make the Springboks the team to beat.

However, France and New Zealand are expected to provide the biggest challenge, while Ireland and England have enough quality to spring a surprise if they build momentum through the six-match campaign.