France, Sept. 30 -- Over 44 days, 52 matches will be contested in seven cities throughout the country culminating in the final on 13 November at Stadium Australia in Sydney.

"We're really optimistic and excited," said Brett Robinson, who heads World Rugby. "It's going to be a party like nothing on Earth."

Hosts Australia will launch the 11th edition with a Pool A game against competition debutants Hong Kong China. They will also play New Zealand and Chile.

France set for solid 2027 Rugby World Cup run after striking gold in pool draw

France, who won the 2025 and 2026 Six Nations tournaments in Europe, will begin their quest for a first title on 2 October against the United States in Pool E at the Docklands Stadium in Melbourne.

Franc...