when does the rugby world cup start 2023
The Rugby World Cup 2023 kicked off on September 8, 2023 , with an electrifying opening match between host nation France and powerhouse New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris.
This tournament, held across nine French venues, ran through to the final on October 28, 2023 , where South Africa defended their title against New Zealand.
Key Dates
- Pool stage : Began September 8 and wrapped up October 8, featuring 40 matches with teams like England, Ireland, and Wales battling it out.
- Quarter-finals : Started October 14, including clashes like Ireland vs. New Zealand.
- Semi-finals : October 20-21, with England vs. South Africa and Argentina vs. New Zealand.
- Final : October 28 at Stade de France—South Africa won 12-11 in a thriller.
Opening Weekend Highlights
The first days set a high bar for drama:
Date| Match| Venue| Notes
---|---|---|---
Sep 8, 2023| France vs New Zealand| Stade de France, Paris| Hosts edged a
27-13 win. 1
Sep 9, 2023| England vs Argentina| Marseille| England prevailed 27-10. 1
Sep 9, 2023| Ireland vs Romania| Bordeaux| Ireland dominated 50-7. 1
Sep 10, 2023| South Africa vs Scotland| Marseille| Boks won 18-3. 3
Why It Mattered
From underdogs like Portugal and Uruguay making waves to South Africa's back- to-back triumph—their fourth title ever—this World Cup showcased rugby's global growth amid packed stadiums and record viewership. Looking back from 2026, it remains a benchmark for intensity, especially with the next edition looming in 2027.
TL;DR : Started Sep 8, 2023 ; ended Oct 28, 2023 —France hosted, Springboks crowned champs.
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