Premier League football is a step closer to 80,000 capacity Twickenham Stadium

Tuesday, 16 September 2025 at 18:48

byRugby Rucker

nal temporary move to Twickenham Stadium as the club looks to finally push ahead with long-awaited redevelopment work at Stamford Bridge.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed it's open to discussions about a groundshare at the home of English rugby, though any deal faces a major hurdle – local council approval.

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“There have been conversations previously,” said RFU CEO Bill Sweeney. “It would be a big financial number.”

Stamford Bridge rebuild edges closer

The Blues have long mulled over how best to modernise Stamford Bridge, but with no clear short-term alternative, Twickenham – with its 82,000-seat capacity – remains firmly on the radar.

The venue was even discussed as a possible option as far back as 2017, with Chelsea revisiting the idea as they weigh up their redevelopment timeline.

Cash boost for the RFU?

With the RFU posting record losses last year, a deal with Chelsea could provide a welcome financial lifeline.

Sweeney hinted that the Union is keen to explore non-rugby revenue streams, but warned any such move would require amendments to current rules limiting Twickenham to just three non-rugby events per year, capped at 55,000 fans.

Council concerns could block the move

One major stumbling block remains: Richmond Borough Council. The local authority has the final say and may push back due to concerns from residents over increased traffic, noise, and footfall.

“They're a little bit more sensitive... it may depend on which club it is,” Sweeney added.

Brentford also in the mix?

It’s not just Chelsea with eyes on Twickenham. Brentford have also been dragged into the rumour mill – hardly surprising given their CEO, Jon Varney, used to work for the RFU.

Varney was quick to play down the chatter, insisting there are no current talks about a move across the river. But crucially, he didn’t slam the door shut on the idea either.

And the Brentford–rugby link just got stronger. Varney confirmed the Barbarians will rock up at the Gtech Community Stadium on November 1st to face an All Blacks XV – a major coup for the Premier League club’s home.

The clash will be a sequel to their 2022 meeting at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – the first international rugby game at Spurs’ ground – when a Scott Robertson-led Barbarians edged a 35–31 thriller.

What next?

For Chelsea fans, all eyes will now be on developments around Stamford Bridge. If work begins, a temporary home will be essential—and Twickenham could become a surprise Premier League venue.

The ball’s now in Richmond Council’s court.

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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