Rugby Match Between New Zealand, Fiji Scheduled for San Diego

Two of the biggest names in rugby, New Zealand and Fiji, will face off for the first time on American soil at San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium on July 19 at 7:30 p.m. local time.

Both the New Zealand All Blacks and Fiji Water Flying Fijians  sit among the top 10 ranked teams in the world and had positive results at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France with the All Blacks losing in the final in the quest for a fourth World Cup title and Fiji beating Australia for the first time in 69 years and making the quarterfinals, equaling their best finish.

“We are fired up to be bringing two of the best rugby teams in the world to San Diego for another iconic event,” Sports San Diego Chief Executive Officer Mark Neville said. “It will surely be a highlight of our summer and will act as a springboard to continue the growth of rugby in San Diego and the United States.”

The two Pacific nations will draw rugby fans from all over the country to help continue to grow and develop rugby within the United States as it builds toward hosting both the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cup in 2031 and 2033, respectively.

“We have had a lack of international fixtures over the last 18 months but this will be a great addition to a huge year for rugby in the United States for our men’s and women’s national teams,” USA Rugby Chief Executive Officer Ross Young said. “This game will give us a real taste of things to come and will be a key part in kick starting growth at all levels ahead of hosting Rugby World Cup’s in 2031 and 2033, respectively.”

This will be the 12th time the two sides have met since their first test in Suva in 1974 when New Zealand beat hosts Fiji 14–13. It will be first time the two teams have played on neutral soil and the first time Fiji has played in the United States.

“Playing against a top-tier nation not only enhances the skill and experience of our players but also opens more avenues for Fiji to engage in matches against esteemed teams like the All Blacks,” said Fiji Rugby Special Administrator Simione Valenitabua. “This move aligns with our commitment to advancing the sport’s growth and providing thrilling rugby experiences for our global fan base.”

The All Blacks last played in America in 2021. San Diego is home of the Legion of Major League Rugby, which includes New Zealand rugby legend Ma’a Nonu, who has played 103 tests for the All Blacks and recently signed on for another season with the team.

“We’re really excited to be taking the All Blacks to San Diego to play Fiji,” New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson said. “It’s been a long-held ambition for New Zealand Rugby and part of our wider strategy to increase the visibility and understanding of rugby in North America and to build our brand presence ahead of the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033 respectively.”