RWC 2027 World Cup Rugby Ball Gilbert Australia

Technical specifications

Care advice

Inflate gradually without exceeding 0.70 bar to preserve the latex bladder. Clean with warm water and a damp cloth, never use harsh detergent which could affect the grip. Store away from direct heat and UV to prevent synthetic leather drying. Re-inflate after intensive use — the latex bladder naturally loses 1 to 2% pressure per week.

Design

Gilbert built this ball around three narrative layers that visually translate Australian territory. Earth appears through patterns evoking hills, countryside and coastline. Sea is expressed in blue shades representing fresh and salt water. Sky incorporates sun, stars and wind in dynamic graphics. This approach goes beyond simple logo addition: each colour, each line tells a geographical element. Hand-stitching guarantees strength and assembly precision, while the latex bladder ensures consistent bounce and pressure retention over time. Textured grip covers the entire playing surface for maximum grip in dry or wet conditions.

RWC 2027 World Cup

The 2027 Rugby World Cup will be held in Australia from 1 October to 13 November. It's the third time the country has hosted the competition, after 1987 (co-hosted with New Zealand) and 2003. Gilbert, the official ball supplier since the first edition in 1987, designed this replica to embody the spirit of the tournament and the identity of the host country. The design is not limited to event branding: it integrates a complete visual narrative that makes the ball both a collector's item and a playing tool.

Gilbert brand

Gilbert has manufactured rugby balls since 1823. The British company supplied the first oval ball used at Rugby School and has equipped the World Cup since its inception in 1987. As a historic rugby ball specialist, Gilbert controls the entire production chain: material selection, stitching, surface treatment, bladder development. The brand remains the world standard for bounce quality, durability and flight precision — essential criteria for a match ball and collector's replica alike.