Baltimore set to stage ‘Greatest Rivalry’ conclusion between Springboks and All Blacks
The Springboks and All Blacks are set to compete in the fourth and final Test of their “Greatest Rivalry” series at the Baltimore Ravens’ home stadium in September, as World Rugby intensifies its efforts to promote the sport in the United States in anticipation of the 2031 World Cup.
This announcement was made early Friday morning [AEDT], with the M&T Bank Stadium Test on September 12 concluding an eight-match schedule for the All Blacks, the first seven of which will take place in South Africa. This aligns with New Zealand Rugby’s commercial goals, which included a partnership with private equity firm Silver Lake in 2022.
New Zealand will return to the United States for the second consecutive year after their victory over Ireland at a sold-out Soldier Field in Chicago last year, but this time they will do so under a new coach following the unexpected dismissal of Scott Robertson.
“The chance to play in the U.S. again, less than a year after our last match, is thrilling for the All Blacks and for New Zealand Rugby,” said interim NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster.
“The U.S. represents a significant market for us and for rugby in general, as we look forward to Rugby World Cup 2031. This will be the fourth occasion the team has played in the U.S. in five years, making it exciting to visit another new city to showcase the spectacle and thrill of rugby.
“Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is intended to be unique, and playing in a city that could be part of the 2031 Rugby World Cup adds another dimension to this tour. We are eager to welcome All Blacks fans and supporters of the haka in Baltimore this September.”
NZR and their counterparts at SA Rugby developed the “Greatest Rugby Rivalry” concept to rejuvenate traditional international tours; however, the Rugby Championship, which also includes Australia and Argentina, will not take place in 2026 as a result.
This series is expected to be a significant financial opportunity for both South Africa and New Zealand, with three Tests scheduled in the Republic, while the All Blacks will also compete against the four United Rugby Championship teams from the country, culminating in the match in Baltimore.
“Introducing the Springboks to new audiences and regions is a crucial goal for South African rugby, and the chance to do so in a landmark match against our greatest rivals was a key factor in the selection of the fourth Test’s location,” stated Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
“With fans having the opportunity to witness the Boks compete against the All Blacks in three home Tests, sharing this excitement in the U.S. is a thrilling prospect, especially with both the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups set to take place in the U.S. in the coming years.
“While the All Blacks have frequently played in the USA in the past, the Boks have only participated there twice this century, and we are very enthusiastic about bringing them to Baltimore and engaging with an evolving rugby community.”
