World Rugby has announced that Brazil will replace Paraguay in next month’s final qualification tournament for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup, set to take place in Dubai from 8 to 18 November. 

The decision follows Paraguay’s withdrawal after admitting to fielding an ineligible player during recent play-off matches between the two nations.

In a statement, World Rugby confirmed Paraguay’s voluntary withdrawal and acknowledged the South American nation’s honesty in admitting the administrative oversight. 

As a result, Brazil will now compete alongside Namibia, Belgium and Samoa for the final available spot at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

According to the latest World Rugby rankings, Brazil sits at 32nd in the world, while Namibia is ranked 27th, Belgium 22nd and Samoa 16th.

Paraguayan Rugby Union president, Gustavo Borgognon described the decision as a difficult but necessary step.

“This is a difficult moment for our team and community, but it’s a decision we must make as men of principle in keeping with rugby’s core value of integrity,” he said.

“The regulation on player eligibility was misunderstood. There was no intent to gain a sporting advantage. We accept full responsibility for the consequences. Rugby in Paraguay has advanced significantly. Through continued hard work, we will recover and keep growing the sport we love,” he added.

World Rugby commended Paraguay’s transparency, reiterating that all unions and competition organisers are responsible for conducting thorough player eligibility checks. 

The governing body highlighted the availability of its online player eligibility checker on the World Rugby passport platform to assist unions in verifying players’ status.

So far, 23 teams have secured qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, including Australia (host), England, Argentina, France, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy, Japan, Fiji, Georgia, Spain, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Uruguay, Canada, Tonga, Chile and the United States.

The Dubai qualifier will determine the 24th and final nation to join the tournament line up. 

  -lmupetami@nepc.com.na