Exciting 2025 Rugby Test Schedule Announced for Black Ferns and All Blacks
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is finalizing the 2025 domestic test schedule for the Black Ferns and All Blacks. The schedule will include a July series against France. NZR plans to share the details with fans in December.
Over 33,000 fans attended the recent match at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, with more than 70% coming from outside the city. This event created commercial opportunities and increased exposure ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup, which the US will host.
USA Rugby is actively promoting major test nations to play in the country before the World Cup. The British and Irish Lions and NZR are reportedly considering a game in the US during the 2029 tour before the Lions go to New Zealand.
In 2025, the All Blacks will host three tests against France, their first since 2018. They will also play two tests against World Champion South Africa and a Bledisloe Cup test. Additionally, they will have two away tests against Argentina and an away Bledisloe Cup test with Australia.
How will the participation of the British and Irish Lions in the US affect rugby’s popularity there?
Interview with Rugby Specialist on Upcoming New Zealand Rugby Schedule
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss the 2025 domestic test schedule for the Black Ferns and All Blacks. Recently, it was reported that NZR is finalizing the details, including a July series against France. Can you provide us with more insights about this?
Specialist: Absolutely, it’s an important year for New Zealand Rugby. The addition of a series against France marks a significant highlight as it will be the first time the All Blacks face France since 2018. Given the competitive nature of both teams, fans can expect thrilling matches.
Interviewer: That’s certainly something to look forward to. How does the attendance of over 33,000 fans at the recent San Diego match play into this growing interest in rugby, especially with the 2031 Rugby World Cup approaching?
Specialist: The turnout in San Diego showcases the increasing popularity of rugby in the US, with strong attendance from out-of-town fans enhancing commercial opportunities. This is pivotal as USA Rugby looks to build momentum leading up to the 2031 Rugby World Cup, and hosting large-scale matches helps expand the sport’s footprint in America.
Interviewer: There are discussions about the British and Irish Lions potentially playing in the US during their 2029 tour before heading to New Zealand. How significant is this for rugby in the US?
Specialist: This would be monumental. The Lions are a renowned team, and their presence in the US would not only elevate the profile of rugby but also draw international attention and support. It signals a commitment to grow the game stateside, and matches like this can pave the way for ongoing engagements.
Interviewer: Looking ahead to 2025, the All Blacks will host several tests, including two against the reigning world champions, South Africa. What do you foresee as the challenges and opportunities for the All Blacks in these fixtures?
Specialist: Hosting South Africa is always a fierce encounter, given their historical rivalry. The challenge lies in maintaining their competitive edge and public support during a packed schedule, but it also provides a golden opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s rugby prowess on home soil.
Interviewer: Additionally, there are rumors of Scotland possibly playing in New Zealand next July. Could this enhance the international appeal of the rugby landscape in New Zealand?
Specialist: Yes, absolutely. Matches against teams like Scotland can enrich the rugby culture in New Zealand. It also offers valuable experiences for the players ahead of high-stakes competitions. The potential match against the Maori All Blacks adds another layer of excitement and tradition, which is central to New Zealand’s rugby identity.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights. We look forward to seeing how these developments unfold as NZR reveals more about the upcoming schedule.
Specialist: Thank you for having me. The future looks bright for rugby in New Zealand, and I’m excited to see both the Black Ferns and All Blacks in action.
The All Blacks first visited the US in 1913, playing against the national team in Berkeley. They returned for a match in Chicago in 2014 and played in Washington in 2021.
Scotland may also play in New Zealand next July, with plans for a midweek game. Coach Gregor Townsend confirmed his team will face Fiji in the Pacific Islands and seeks to finalize another test, likely in New Zealand. A match against the Maori All Blacks is a potential option.