M&T Bank Stadium to host ‘iconic’ rugby match

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Regarded as rugby’s greatest rivalry, an upcoming matchup between the Springboks and the All Blacks is set to take place in the U.S. for the first time with Baltimore‘s M&T Bank Stadium being selected as the venue.

The touring series between the two teams, held every four years, made the announcement last week that Baltimore would be the host city for the 2026 series’ fourth test. 

M&T Bank Stadium, the home of the Baltimore Ravens, will welcome the two rugby squads on Saturday, Sept. 12. The stadium has a 71,000-occupant capacity.

The Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, and the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national union rugby team, both have played matches in the U.S. in years prior against various opponents. However, the two haven’t squared off against each other on American soil before. 

“Taking the Springboks to new audiences and territories is a key objective for South African rugby and the opportunity to do so in a ground-breaking match against our fiercest rivals was a major determinant in where the fourth Test would be played,” South Africa Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer said. 

“With fans getting the opportunity to see the Boks in action against the All Blacks in three home Tests, the chance to share the excitement in the U.S. is an exciting one, compounded by the fact that both men’s and women’s Rugby World Cup will be heading to the USA in a few years’ time.”

As international rugby entities seek to grow the sport in the United States, World Rugby and member unions are collaborating to strategically position global rugby influence in key markets across the nation, according to a release.

Baltimore, already home to two major professional sports franchises, is an applicant city for the Rugby World Cup 2031.

The event is expected to attract fans from across the nation and overseas, delivering a potential local economic boost.

“The All Blacks–Springboks rivalry is one of the most iconic matchups in international rugby, and we’re thrilled to host these legendary teams at M&T Bank Stadium,” Ravens president Sashi Brown said. 

“Our incredible partnership with the State of Maryland, including its support for our ongoing stadium renovations, has helped position M&T Bank Stadium as a world-class venue. As one of a handful of premier global sporting events, this rugby match underscores our shared commitment to bringing world-class experiences to Baltimore.”