Ireland and Lions star Bundee Aki could be set for blockbuster move to the Gallagher Prem

Tuesday, 16 September 2025 at 19:14

byRugby Rucker

Ireland star Bundee Aki is contracted until 2026, but questions remain over where he’ll play beyond that – and whether he’ll still be central to Andy Farrell’s plans.

The Connacht powerhouse has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, capped by his call-up to the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.

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Aki featured in all three Tests, starting two, and even crossed for the Lions’ first try of the tour in their warm-up clash against Argentina.

Yet his club future is far from settled. Aki previously held talks with Bristol Bears, where a reunion with ex-Connacht boss Pat Lam was on the cards, before his international form spiked.

Now, Newcastle “Red Bulls” are being touted as another potential destination, with ex-Ireland international Ronan O’Gara linked to Kingston Park.

The Premiership outfit are also believed to be weighing up a move for Ireland fly-half Joey Carbery as they look to rebuild ahead of the next cycle.

For now, Aki remains a key figure for both Ireland and Connacht. But as 2026 edges closer, all eyes will be on whether he sticks with the IRFU or seeks one final challenge abroad.

2027 Rugby World Cup Draw: England get tough pool

The 2027 Rugby World Cup is set to be a landmark tournament, expanding to 24 teams and hosted by Australia from October 1 to November 13, 2027.

The official pool draw is scheduled for December 2025, but based on current World Rugby rankings, here's a predicted breakdown of the pools and profiles of the teams involved.

Pool A

New Zealand – The Mighty All Blacks

The All Blacks are perennial powerhouses with three World Cup titles (1987, 2011, 2015). They reached the final in 2023 but were narrowly defeated by South Africa 12–11.

Argentina – Los Pumas on the Prowl

Los Pumas are known for their physical play and passionate fan base, consistently challenging top-tier teams.

Portugal – The Lusitanian Lancers

Emerging as a strong contender, Portugal has been improving steadily, surprising bigger nations with their grit.

USA – The Eagle Soars

The Eagles are steadily developing their rugby program, with increasing participation and performance levels.

Pool B

Ireland – The Emerald Warriors

Ireland boasts a rich rugby history and a strong domestic league, making them a formidable opponent in any pool.

Scotland – The Braveheart Tacklers

Scotland is known for tactical play and resilience, consistently challenging the sport's elite.

Uruguay – Los Teros Tenacious

Uruguay has grown significantly in international rugby, showcasing strong defense and spirited play.

Chile – The Rugby Condors

Chile is making strides, with a growing domestic scene and increasing international experience.

Pool C

South Africa – The Springbok Stalwarts

South Africa are masters of forward play and history-makers, winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup with a thrilling 12–11 victory over New Zealand.

Fiji – The Flying Fijians

Fiji’s flair and skill make them exciting to watch, blending tradition with dynamic attacking rugby.

Tonga – The Island Titans

Tonga brings relentless physicality and passion, often punching above their weight.

Romania – The Oak Strongmen

Romania has a long-standing rugby tradition, emphasizing forward dominance and set-piece strength.

Pool D

France – Les Bleus Unleashed

France is unpredictable and dynamic, capable of taking down any team with flair and creativity.

Italy – The Azzurri Avengers

Italy has steadily improved, developing young talent and focusing on competitive consistency.

Spain – The Iberian Bulls

Spain is emerging in European rugby, combining speed, skill, and growing experience on the international stage.

Hong Kong China – The Dragon Chargers

Hong Kong China qualified for the first time by winning the 2025 Asia Rugby Championship, defeating South Korea 70–22 in the final. This marks a significant milestone for rugby in Asia.

Pool E

England – The Red Rose Rampagers

England has a rich rugby heritage, with a strong domestic league and impressive international pedigree.

Georgia – The Scrum Kings

Known for their formidable scrum and forward play, Georgia is a rising force in European rugby.

Samoa – The Island Hurricanes

Samoa’s team combines skill, physicality, and a passionate rugby culture.

Canada – The Maple Warriors

Canada continues to develop their program, aiming to compete strongly on the world stage.

Pool F

Australia – The Wallabies on Home Turf

The host nation brings talent and experience, ready to dazzle crowds across seven cities.

Wales – The Dragon Fire

Wales is known for passionate supporters and a team that often exceeds expectations.

Japan – The Rising Sun Speedsters

Japan has become a force with speed, discipline, and memorable performances in previous World Cups.

Zimbabwe – The Sables’ Return

Zimbabwe qualified for 2027 by defeating Namibia 30–28 in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, marking their first World Cup appearance since 1991.

Tournament Format

The 24-team format features a pool stage followed by knockout rounds, including a Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and Final.

Host Cities

Matches will take place across Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Sydney, and Townsville.

Ticketing

Over 2.5 million tickets will be available, with travel packages launching in 2026.

QUIZ: Can you name all 26 teams to have played at the Men’s Rugby World Cups?

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