Hong Kong secures World Cup debut
Hong Kong's rugby team has made history by securing a place in the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, marking their first-ever qualification for the prestigious tournament [1][2][3][4].
The team's qualification journey began with an impressive display in the 2025 Asia Rugby Championship. With victories against the United Arab Emirates (43-10), Sri Lanka (78-7), and a decisive 70-22 win over South Korea in Incheon, Hong Kong clinched the continental Asian qualification spot for the expanded 24-team tournament [1][2][3].
The victory over South Korea was particularly significant, as it sealed their championship title and secured their spot in the World Cup [1][2][3]. This achievement makes Hong Kong the second Asian men's team to qualify for the Rugby World Cup, following Japan, who qualified earlier based on their performance at the 2023 tournament in France [1][2].
The qualification is expected to have a significant impact on rugby's profile in Hong Kong, inspiring future generations and boosting the sport's popularity [3]. The coaching staff and management are now focusing on preparing the team for the World Cup, with plans to refine the squad, improve performance, and arrange competitive fixtures leading up to the tournament [3].
In contrast, the United Arab Emirates' journey to the World Cup qualifiers was more challenging. Their victory over Sri Lanka (29-21) in a qualification decider away from home was a testament to their resilience and determination [4]. Despite finishing second in the Asia Rugby Championship, the United Arab Emirates will now play off against an African nation in July, aiming for a spot at the final World Cup qualification tournament [4].
In the end, Hong Kong's dominance in the Asia Rugby Championship has earned them a well-deserved spot in the World Cup, marking a significant step for Asian rugby on the world stage [1][2][3][4]. The 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia is set to be an unforgettable event for both teams, with Hong Kong and Japan representing Asia on the international stage.
The Hong Kong rugby team's triumphant journey in the 2025 Asia Rugby Championship, marked by victories against the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, and South Korea, has not only secured their place in the 2027 Rugby World Cup but also earned them the continental Asian qualification spot for the expanded 24-team tournament. With football-like determination, Hong Kong's focus now shifts to the World Cup, as they refine their squad, improve performance, and prepare for competitive fixtures leading up to the tournament.
