Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne is confident that the new expanded format for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will feature 24 teams, will not disrupt Fiji’s game plan. The tournament introduces a new round-of-16 knockout stage and reduces the number of pool matches from four to three, but Byrne insists that the team’s focus will remain steadfast on comprehensive preparation as the event approaches.
Byrne acknowledges that exposure to high-quality opposition and the pressures of major tournaments is vital for Fiji’s readiness for the knockout rounds. He emphasizes the significance of the lead-up to the World Cup, stating, “It’s probably what we do prior to the World Cup that’s important… there’s an opportunity for players to sense the big stage before the big stage arrives.”
To facilitate their preparation, the Flying Fijians are actively pursuing formidable warm-up matches that replicate the intense environments faced by elite teams such as France and England in their World Cup preparations. Byrne stresses the importance of swiftly transitioning from pool play to the heightened stakes of knockout rugby, aiming to progress from the round of 16 to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately the final.
Fiji’s dedication to thorough training and their proactive approach to securing competitive match experiences are promising signs of their commitment to making a significant impact on the world stage. With the right preparation and mindset, the Flying Fijians are poised to rise to the challenge in 2027.