As the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to fall, rugby fans across the UK know exactly what that means – the return of Autumn Rugby. This season, known as the Autumn Internationals, marks the start of a thrilling period in the rugby calendar, where the northern hemisphere’s finest sides welcome the giants of the south for a series of high-stakes international clashes.

From Twickenham to the Aviva, the Autumn Internationals offer a glimpse into the form and firepower of each nation ahead of the Six Nations. But what exactly are these fixtures, and why do they matter so much?

What Are the Autumn Internationals?

The Autumn Internationals – also known as the Autumn Nations Series are a set of test matches played throughout November. They see the northern hemisphere’s top teams (England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and France) host touring sides from the southern hemisphere, including New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Argentina, and others.

These matches are more than just friendlies. They’re fiercely competitive, often reigniting historic rivalries and offering a crucial opportunity for teams to test combinations, build momentum, and climb the World Rugby rankings ahead of the next World Cup draw.

Key Fixtures to Watch in 2025

This year’s Autumn Rugby schedule is packed with blockbuster encounters. Here are just a few highlights:

  • England vs Australia – 1 November, Twickenham
  • Ireland vs New Zealand – 1 November, Soldier Field, Chicago
  • France vs South Africa – 8 November, Stade de France
  • England vs New Zealand – 15 November, Twickenham
  • Ireland vs South Africa – 22 November, Aviva Stadium
  • Wales vs South Africa – 29 November, Principality Stadium

These fixtures not only showcase world-class talent but also serve as a litmus test for how each team is shaping up ahead of the Six Nations.

Why Autumn Rugby Matters

While there’s no trophy on the line, the Autumn Internationals are vital for several reasons:

  • Form Guide for the Six Nations: Coaches use these matches to assess player combinations, test strategies, and build squad depth.
  • World Rankings Impact: Results directly influence the World Rugby rankings, which will determine seedings for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
  • Fan Engagement: These games reignite passion among supporters, filling stadiums and pubs alike with energy and anticipation.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Six Nations

Once the Autumn Internationals wrap up, attention quickly turns to the 2026 Six Nations, which kicks off on 5 February with France hosting Ireland in Paris. England begin their campaign at home against Wales, while Scotland travel to Rome to face Italy.

The Six Nations is a winter tradition – a time when fans brave the cold, wrapped in scarves and national colours, cheering their teams through five rounds of intense competition. The performances in November often set the tone for what’s to come.

Final Thoughts

Autumn Rugby is more than just a warm-up, it’s a proving ground. It’s where rivalries are reignited, new stars emerge, and strategies are sharpened. For fans and players alike, it’s a season of anticipation, pride, and world-class sport.

At Experience First, we live and breathe these moments. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, a client experience, or a personal celebration around the rugby calendar, our team is here to help you make it unforgettable. We’re not just about tickets – we’re about people. From the first enquiry to the final toast, our team curates every detail. seamless, personal, and built on trust – this is hospitality, perfected.

For more information, please look at our Rugby page: Rugby Hospitality Tickets: Six Nations – Experience First Events