The final instalment of the "Greatest Rivalry" test series between South Africa and New Zealand drew an unprecedented crowd to the NFL stadium that hosts the Baltimore Ravens, underscoring the growing curiosity for rugby in the United States. Nearly 70,000 spectators—68,173 to be exact—packed the venue, setting a new benchmark for any rugby international played on American soil.
The sea of colour in the stands was dominated by the vivid green of the Springboks, punctuated by the iconic black of the All Blacks and a scattering of neutral fans who had come simply to witness a historic clash. On the field, the match lived up to its billing.
The Springboks out‑scored the All Blacks 43‑28, sealing a 3‑1 series triumph that will be remembered for its high‑octane attacking play, relentless defence and moments of individual brilliance. Yet beyond the scoreboard, the event carried a larger significance: it was a deliberate showcase designed to whet American appetites for the 2031 Rugby World Cup, which the United States is slated to host. Rugby has long struggled to carve out a foothold in the United States, a market dominated by the NFL, NBA, MLB and a burgeoning soccer scene. The sheer size and enthusiasm of the Saturday crowd suggested that the sport may finally be finding a receptive audience.
Fans were treated not only to a thrilling contest but also to a cultural exchange, as the two rugby powerhouses demonstrated the drama, athleticism and camaraderie that make the game compelling worldwide. After the final whistle, both captains—All Blacks skipper Codie Taylor and Springboks leader Siya Kolisi—emphasised the importance of giving American fans more exposure to the sport. Taylor remarked, "It’s great to come over here and see what America has to offer.
They love their sports and they got right behind rugby. America has obviously got some great sports and they're fanatical about every sport they're involved in. It would be great to see US Rugby keep building.
Leading into 2031, it's in a strong place to lay the foundation for what will be an awesome World Cup." His comments highlighted the enthusiasm of the local crowd and the potential for sustained growth if rugby continues to receive visibility. Kolisi echoed this optimism, suggesting that the NFL could play a pivotal role in expanding rugby’s footprint.
He proposed that NFL franchises might adopt rugby as an offseason activity, invest in existing American clubs, and even allow fringe players to gain experience on the rugby field. "I really think Americans would love rugby if they get to see more of it and if it's shown a whole lot more on TV," Kolisi said.
"If NFL teams buy into rugby and become part‑owners of rugby clubs, it would help the game a lot. Also, it’s a game that Americans would actually enjoy—they love physical sports.
The more teams that come and play here, the more people become invested in the rugby teams." The match also marked a personal milestone for Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus, who was at the helm for his 100th test. Kolisi praised Erasmus, noting that his deep understanding of the squad and his ability to motivate players were central to South Africa’s dominance. "Coach Rassie knows us and gets us up.
When he speaks to us he reminds us where we come from. The players who are in the group but not playing today, we do it for them, the guys who are injured and also for the people of South Africa who would love to have the opportunities we have," Kolisi said. Beyond the immediate excitement, the event serves as a case study for how rugby can integrate into the American sporting landscape. The NFL’s massive stadiums, sophisticated broadcast infrastructure and entrenched fan culture provide a template for rugby’s expansion.
By scheduling high‑profile matches in NFL venues, rugby administrators can tap into existing fan bases, leverage the stadiums’ capacity for large crowds, and benefit from the media attention that accompanies major American sports events. Moreover, the broadcast strategy is crucial. Both the match and the surrounding commentary were streamed via platforms that recommend using Chrome for optimal video playback, indicating an awareness of the need for accessible, high‑quality viewing experiences. Consistent, reliable streaming can help build a loyal online audience, especially among younger fans who consume sports content digitally.
The broader implications for the 2031 World Cup are significant. If the United States can sustain and grow this level of interest, the tournament could attract unprecedented attendance figures, lucrative sponsorship deals, and a global television audience eager to watch a World Cup staged in a new market. The success of this test match suggests that, with strategic partnerships—particularly with the NFL—and a concerted effort to increase television exposure, rugby can transition from a niche sport to a mainstream attraction in the United States.
In summary, the record‑breaking crowd at the Baltimore Ravens stadium not only celebrated a thrilling rugby encounter but also signalled a turning point for the sport’s American ambitions. The enthusiasm of nearly 70,000 fans, the endorsement from both captains, and the strategic vision of rugby’s governing bodies collectively point toward a promising future. As the United States prepares to host the 2031 Rugby World Cup, the momentum generated by this historic test could lay the groundwork for an event that captures the imagination of both traditional rugby followers and a new generation of American sports enthusiasts.
All games are broadcast live on Sky Sports, with kick‑off times listed for the UK and Ireland.