Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 1, 2025: Asia’s road to the men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 begins in June. The Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship 2025 kicks off with four ambitious national teams – the United Arab Emirates, Korea, Hong Kong China and newly-promoted Sri Lanka – playing a round-robin competition with the winner securing the coveted Asia 1 spot at the global showpiece in Australia.
Japan, Asia’s number one team, has already qualified for RWC 2027.
“This Championship is about more than just qualification – it’s about showcasing the very best of Asian rugby to a global audience,” said Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai.
The round-robin competition will start on June 13 in Colombo when Sri Lanka host Korea, and end on July 5 in Incheon when favourites Hong Kong China take on Korea.
The tournament runner-up will also remain in the hunt for a RWC 2027 spot, advancing to a high-stakes playoff against Africa 2 for a place in the Final Qualification Tournament to be held from November 8-18, 2025, at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai, UAE.
“We’re incredibly proud of how far our region has come and look forward to hosting the world in Dubai later this year as part of Asia’s journey to Rugby World Cup 2027,” Al Dhalai noted.
Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship 2025
Match Schedule
June 13: Sri Lanka v Korea, Colombo
June 14: UAE v Hong Kong China, Dubai
June 21: Korea v UAE, Incheon
June 22: Hong Kong China v Sri Lanka, Hong Kong
July 4: Sri Lanka v UAE, Colombo
July 5: Korea v Hong Kong China, Incheon.
