The 2025 Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship kicks off on June 13 at the Racecourse Ground in Colombo, with hosts Sri Lanka facing South Korea in the opening match of the Top 4 tournament.
This year’s championship holds added significance, as the winner will earn a direct qualification spot for the Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. Japan has already qualified, leaving one automatic berth available through the Asia Rugby Championship. The runner-up will face Africa 2 in July in the next stage of the qualification pathway.
Defending champions Hong Kong China, who have won the title five times, are favourites for another strong campaign. UAE, runners-up in 2024, and South Korea, who finished third, will also be strong contenders. Sri Lanka, who earned promotion after defeating Malaysia in the 2024 relegation playoff, return to the Top 4 with high hopes under the guidance of Rugby Director Inthi Marikar. A 34-man squad is currently in training in Colombo.
Tournament Schedule – 2025 Asia Rugby Championship
- June 13: Sri Lanka vs South Korea – Colombo
- June 14: UAE vs Hong Kong China – UAE
- June 21: South Korea vs UAE – Incheon
- June 22: Hong Kong China vs Sri Lanka – Hong Kong
- July 4: Sri Lanka vs UAE – Colombo
- July 5: South Korea vs Hong Kong China – Incheon
The tournament will determine Asia’s top rugby nation and who advances to Rugby World Cup 2027.
