world

Perth, Western Australia, is set to develop into a major hub for international rugby in 2026, securing exclusive hosting rights for two blockbuster matches featuring Australia’s national team, the Wallabies. The Wallabies will face both Italy and South Africa in Western Australia, offering Australian fans a unique opportunity to witness world-class rugby action on home soil. These matches are expected to deliver significant economic benefits to the region, bolstering tourism and supporting local jobs, as part of the Cook Government’s broader economic diversification strategy.

The first match, part of the inaugural Nations Championship tournament, will notice the Wallabies take on Italy at HBF Park on Saturday, July 18th. Later in the year, on Sunday, September 27th, Optus Stadium will host a highly anticipated clash between Australia and the defending world champions, South Africa, for the prestigious Mandela Challenge Plate. According to Tourism WA, these fixtures represent a significant investment in Western Australia’s growing reputation as a premier sporting destination.

The securing of these matches was confirmed by the Cook Government through Tourism WA, ensuring that Australian fans have exclusive access to see the Wallabies compete against Italy and South Africa in 2026. The Nations Championship, a latest biennial tournament involving 12 leading rugby nations, serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup, which is likewise slated to initiate in Perth. The Mandela Challenge Plate, contested between Australia and South Africa’s Springboks, adds further prestige to the calendar.

Economic Impact and Tourism Boost

The Western Australian government anticipates a substantial economic impact from these events. The Wallabies and Springboks last played in Perth in 2024, attracting nearly 3,000 out-of-state visitors and reaching an international audience of almost 1.7 million viewers, as reported by Tourism WA. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby stated, “These matches are expected to attract thousands of out-of-state visitors, showcase our city to a global audience through international broadcasts, and strengthen WA’s reputation as a world-class host of major sporting events.”

These events are part of a larger effort to create a year-round calendar of events in Western Australia, diversifying the economy and extending the tourism season beyond peak periods. Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti emphasized the government’s commitment, saying, “By investing in these major events, we’re creating an events calendar that attracts visitors year-round, supports local jobs, and delivers long-term benefits for Western Australians.”

Building on a Golden Decade for Rugby in WA

Western Australia’s commitment to rugby extends beyond these two matches. The region has already hosted a sold-out Bledisloe Cup in 2025 and has secured a three-year deal to continue hosting Rugby SVNS in Perth until 2028. These events culminate with the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup kicking off in Perth, solidifying the state’s position as a key player in the world of rugby. The ongoing investment in sporting infrastructure, including HBF Park and Optus Stadium, is crucial to attracting and hosting these high-profile events.

The Mandela Challenge Plate, awarded to the winner of the Test match series between the Wallabies and Springboks, will further elevate the profile of the Perth fixture. Both matches will be broadcast live across Australia and internationally, showcasing Western Australia’s world-class facilities to key tourism markets. The focus on attracting out-of-state visitors aims to generate valuable tourism dollars for local businesses and create employment opportunities.

As Perth prepares to host these significant rugby events, the focus remains on delivering a world-class experience for both players and fans. The Cook Government and Tourism WA are committed to leveraging these opportunities to strengthen Western Australia’s position as a leading sports tourism destination. Further details about ticketing and event schedules can be found at australia.rugby.

What comes next is the detailed planning and logistical preparation for these events, including ticketing sales, fan engagement initiatives, and broadcast arrangements. The success of these matches will be a key indicator of Western Australia’s ability to attract and host major international sporting events in the years to come. Share your thoughts on these exciting developments in the comments below!

A 12-year-old girl in the province of Modena, Italy, has reported being sexually assaulted by two friends, aged 15 and 16, even as a third friend allegedly filmed the attack. The girl sought medical attention twice in the past week, initially following the incident and again on Saturday with her mother, according to reports.

Medical examinations at the Policlinico di Modena reportedly confirmed evidence of sexual assault, prompting a referral to law enforcement. Doctors immediately initiated a specialized care pathway for the girl, separating her from general areas and providing appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic support, given her age and the nature of the alleged abuse.

The incident allegedly occurred at the girl’s home, where she had invited the two boys and another female friend for an afternoon gathering. Details of the assault remain unclear as investigations are ongoing. All individuals involved are Italian citizens.

Authorities have opened a case for sexual violence, with the Procura dei Minorenni (Juvenile Public Prosecutor’s Office) leading the investigation. Police are expected to formally interview the girl and her family today, allowing her to provide a detailed account of the events. The position of the third friend, who allegedly filmed the assault, is too under investigation.

The girl initially recounted the alleged abuse to medical staff, describing repeated assaults. The hospital’s immediate response included examinations in Obstetrics and Gynecology to document any physical evidence. The medical team then reported the case to police and the public prosecutor’s office, triggering the formal investigation.

Investigators are currently working to determine whether the two adolescent boys knew the girl through school or other social circles. The girl’s initial account suggests a progression from unwanted advances to the alleged sexual assault. The investigation will focus on reconstructing the events and establishing the full extent of the alleged abuse.