Rugby Championship: match relocated to Twickenham

Moving a Rugby Championship fixture out of the Southern Hemisphere remains a rare event. The last time was in 2016, when Argentina faced Australia in London. In 2024, the SANZAAR and the Union Argentina de Rugby are repeating the experience, this time choosing the mythical Twickenham Stadium in England, renamed Allianz Stadium as of this season.

The Springboks on familiar ground

For only the second time in the competition's history, it is once again England that is hosting a Rugby Championship match. A decision that intrigues as much as it arouses the interest of enthusiasts. But for Rassie Erasmus, coach of the Springboks, the choice is strategic:

"It's always a pleasure to play at Twickenham. Since 2023, we've played two test-matches there, and the atmosphere is incredible thanks to the many South African fans based in the UK. We're looking forward to playing Argentina here for the first time," he confided.

Pumas bank on spectacle and revenue

Officially, this remains a home match for the Pumas, even though it will be played over 11,000 km from Buenos Aires. The choice of Twickenham above all responds to an economic logic: with its 82,000 seats, the stadium offers a capacity far superior to Argentina's largest stadiums, which cap at around 50,000.

By significantly increasing ticket prices - from 60 to 150 euros -, the Argentine federation hopes to quadruple the revenue generated by this Rugby Championship match alone. A financial gamble that could pay off handsomely, even if the Pumas will have to do without the massive support of their local fans.