Dick’s to host Pacific Nations Semi Finals starting on Sept. 14

By Jay McKinney

In the United States, rugby is a sport with limited fandom despite sharing similar characteristics with football and soccer. It’s probably safe to say that most people don’t know all the rules, couldn’t name a professional player and wouldn’t know where to watch a game.

However, the Denver area is recognized as a hotbed for the sport, and it's a perfect city to host the Pacific Nations Cup Semi Final next month. The event has a direct qualification path to the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027, so spectators can experience the highest level of competition in global rugby.

The Pacific Nations Cup 2025 features six countries that are split into two regional pools. Pool A includes Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. Pool B includes Canada, Japan and the United States. Starting on Friday, Aug. 22, Canada and the United States will kick off the month-long tournament with games in Calgary, Alberta.

“The reimagined Pacific Nations Cup is more than just a tournament, it’s a manifestation of World Rugby’s broader commitment to building a global game that is inclusive, competitive, and sustainable,” says World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson.

Throughout the tournament, each team is guaranteed at least three matches with a minimum of one home fixture in the leadup to the semi finals, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 14, at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City.

The semi finals will feature three separate matches in one day to determine the three teams that will punch their ticket to the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027. Japan and Fiji have already qualified, so there is less pressure on these nations. But they will still compete for the Pacific Nations title. The sixth-place team will compete in the South America/Pacific playoff.

All six countries have a notable passion for rugby, and the event is likely to further raise the Denver area’s profile as a rugby and sports mecca.

“From world championships to grassroots leagues, Denver is a sports town through and through and now we get to bring that same energy to international rugby,” says Mayor Mike Johnston. “We’re proud to host the Pacific Nations Cup in September and we look forward to showcasing our world-class venues, warm hospitality and vibrant culture to the world."