Rugby World Cup Champions

Last Updated: November 4, 2026
3,167

See the complete list of Rugby World Cup champions from 1987 through 2023, including every winner, final score, and runner-up. South Africa are the defending champions after defeating New Zealand 12–11 in the 2023 final, giving the Springboks a record four Rugby World Cup titles.

Fast Facts:

  • South Africa has won a record four Rugby World Cup championships, capturing the title in 1995, 2007, 2019, and 2023.
  • New Zealand has won three Rugby World Cup titles, while Australia has won two and England has won one.
  • South Africa and New Zealand are the only nations to win consecutive Rugby World Cups. New Zealand repeated in 2011 and 2015, followed by South Africa in 2019 and 2023.
  • England is the only Northern Hemisphere nation to win the Men’s Rugby World Cup, defeating Australia 20–17 after extra time in the 2003 final.
  • The Rugby World Cup was first held in 1987, with New Zealand defeating France 29–9 to become the inaugural champions. The winner receives the Webb Ellis Cup.
  • The next Men’s Rugby World Cup will take place in Australia from October 1 to November 13, 2027. The tournament will expand to 24 teams for the first time, with South Africa seeking a third consecutive championship.

Rugby World Cup Champions by Year

Year Champion Score Runner-Up
2023 South Africa 12–11 New Zealand
2019 South Africa 32–12 England
2015 New Zealand 34–17 Australia
2011 New Zealand 8–7 France
2007 South Africa 15–6 England
2003 England 20–17 (a.e.t.) Australia
1999 Australia 35–12 France
1995 South Africa 15–12 (a.e.t.) New Zealand
1991 Australia 12–6 England
1987 New Zealand 29–9 France

Most Rugby World Cup Championships

Country Titles Championship Years
South Africa 4 1995, 2007, 2019, 2023
New Zealand 3 1987, 2011, 2015
Australia 2 1991, 1999
England 1 2003
Last Updated: November 4, 2026
3,167
Back to top button