The Rugby Championship: what it is and how the southern-hemisphere tournament works

If the Six Nations is the European winter, the Rugby Championship is the other half of the sky: the tournament that pits the four giants of the southern hemisphere against each other. Rugby from another planet — physical and electric.

Which teams play

New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and Argentina: historically the four strongest national teams in the southern hemisphere. The tournament is run by SANZAAR, the consortium of their unions.

From Tri Nations to Rugby Championship

Until 2011 it was the Tri Nations, with three teams. In 2012 Argentina joined and the Rugby Championship was born. One detail says it all about the level: New Zealand have won 10 of the 12 editions played.

How it works

Each team plays six matches — three at home and three away — facing each opponent twice, in a «mini-tour» format. The team that finishes top of the table wins.

Why it’s worth following

Because this is where the world champions play, the tempo is sky-high and every match is a rugby lesson. To understand where this sport is heading, you have to look south too.

Watch our video: Rugby Championship: the final sprint.