Rugby fans in Japan are set for another major international showcase after World Rugby and Asahi Breweries Limited confirmed that Asahi Super Dry will once again headline the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 as the tournament’s Title Partner and Official Beer.

The 17th edition of the competition will take place from 12–19 September 2026 across Osaka and Tokyo, featuring a refreshed format designed to provide more meaningful international clashes as teams continue their preparations for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.

Supporters will see Fiji, Canada, USA and hosts Japan battle for the title, with the action beginning at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka on 12 September. Defending champions Fiji will open the semi-finals against Canada, followed by Japan’s meeting with USA.

The winners will then return to the capital for the final at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo on 19 September, alongside the third-place play-off.

Fiji will enter the tournament looking to secure a historic third straight championship after defeating Japan in the 2024 and 2025 finals.

The competition also forms part of the evolving global rugby calendar, creating stronger pathways between international tournaments including the World Rugby Nations Championship and the World Rugby Nations Cup. The Pacific Nations Cup will provide valuable high-level matches before the participating teams continue their November campaigns.

Although Samoa and Tonga will not feature in the 2026 Pacific Nations Cup, both nations will compete in the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup in July and will continue receiving targeted development support from World Rugby as they prepare for future international challenges.

World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer Michel Poussau said the continued partnership with Asahi reflects a shared commitment to growing rugby and delivering memorable experiences for supporters around the world.

Asahi Breweries Managing Corporate Officer and Head of Marketing Takeshi Furusawa added that the company is proud to continue its role in the tournament and aims to enhance the fan experience while celebrating rugby’s values of integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline and respect.

The 2026 event marks the third consecutive year that Asahi Super Dry has served as Title Partner, extending the company’s global involvement in rugby following its partnership with World Rugby during the Rugby World Cup 2023.