A specially liveried A380 celebrating the men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027 has made its first visit to Sydney, beginning a year-long journey ahead of the tournament.
The Emirates A380 arrived in the Harbour City before continuing to Christchurch, marking the aircraft’s first service in its new Rugby World Cup colours.
Inspired by the official 2027 tournament logo, the orange livery features a large rugby ball at its centre and celebrates Australia’s role as host nation.
The design is Emirates’ fifth consecutive Rugby World Cup aircraft livery, continuing a tradition that began in 2011. The aircraft is expected to carry the branding across the airline’s global network for the next year.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said the aircraft’s Sydney debut coincided with the airline marking 30 years of operations to Australia.
“Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is coming to Australia and we are thrilled to mark that occasion by bringing our Rugby World Cup livery to Sydney for the very first time,” Sir Tim said.
Emirates has been involved in rugby sponsorship since becoming title sponsor of the Dubai Sevens in 1987. In 2025, the airline extended its partnership with World Rugby through to 2035 and became the organisation’s first Platinum Partner.
The agreement covers the Men’s Rugby World Cups in 2027, 2031 and 2035, Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2029 and 2033 and qualifying competitions, while Emirates also continues its sponsorship of World Rugby referees and match officials.
The airline will mark 20 years of supporting Rugby World Cup tournaments in 2027.
