Rugby World Cup 2027 Official Match Ball Design Released – Gilbert Extends Partnership with World Rugby Until 2033

World Rugby and Gilbert unveiled the official match ball design for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, and have confirmed the extension to their long-standing partnership until 2033.

Rugby World Cup 2027 Match Ball Design

World Rugby said the “official ball for Rugby World Cup 2027 embodies the vibrant identity of the tournament, featuring the iconic event mark and a striking orange hue inspired by Australia’s sun and distinctive earth tones.”

Gilbert said online of the design, that it reflects “Australia as a country of light and energy, reflecting the spirit of its people while celebrating its rich heritage and the diverse social and cultural fabric of the country.”

When designing the Official Ball, Gilbert Rugby added that it drew from the contours and colours of Australia’s nature:

• Delicate rock formations
• Meandering rivers
• Sweeping coastlines and skyscapes

Photo Credit – Gilbert

World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer, Michel Poussau, said, “Gilbert has once again they have delivered a vibrant and distinctive design for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. This ball not only provides the world’s best players with the perfect tool to perform at the highest level, but also enhances the experience for fans through cutting-edge technology.”

Gilbert Rugby Commercial CEO, Richard Gray added: “Rugby World Cup tournaments are the absolute pinnacle of our sport and always such a wonderful occasion and a fantastic opportunity to bring new and existing fans together and celebrate rugby”.

Fans will be able to purchase the first official balls before Christmas 2025, with other commemorative licensed products launching globally in 2026.

Gilbert and World Rugby Extend Partnership

World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer, Michel Poussau, said, “World Rugby is proud to continue its trusted partnership with Gilbert, ensuring that the official match balls for all our 15s competitions, including the prestigious Rugby World Cups, are of the highest quality through to 2033.”

Under the agreement, Gilbert will remain the Official Ball Supplier for all World Rugby 15s competitions and Rugby World Cups, ensuring that the men’s and women’s tournaments in Australia (2027 & 2029) and the USA (2031 & 2033) will all be played with Gilbert’s world-leading match balls.

• Gilbert balls to feature across all major World Rugby competitions, including the Pacific Nations Cup, WXV Global Series, World Rugby U20 Championship, and regional tournaments.

Gilbert Rugby Commercial CEO, Richard Gray added: “We are delighted to be renewing our long and successful relationship with World Rugby and Rugby World Cup. This represents a ringing endorsement of the Gilbert brand and product and the wider brand strength and service we offer to the world’s best competitions and players.”

Rugby World Cup 2027 News

• Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 Draw.
• Rugby World Cup 2027 Draw Date, Tournament Format & Ticketing.
• Hong Kong China Men’s XVs Preparations & Confirmed Centralised Contracted Players – Road to RWC 2027
• World Rugby and Emirates Extend Partnership.