Rugby World Cup TV Guide 2025 – Live Matches, Times & Expert Analysis
If you love rugby and don’t want to miss a single kick, you’re in the right spot. We’ve pulled together the exact dates, channels and streaming options so you can tuck in on the couch, at the pub, or on the move and still catch every try, penalty and celebration.
When and Where to Watch the Live Games
The tournament kicks off on September 8 and runs until October 28. All pool matches will be shown on ITV1 in the UK, with prime‑time kick‑offs at 7 pm BST for most games. If you’re outside the UK, the matches stream live on the ITV Hub, which you can access with a free account. For those with a satellite dish, Sky Sports also carries the afternoon fixtures, so you have a backup if you miss the evening slot.
Time zones can be tricky, especially if you’re watching from Australia or the US. A quick tip: add 5 hours to the UK start time for Eastern US and 10 hours for West Coast. We’ll keep an up‑to‑date clock on our site, so you never have to do the math yourself.
What to Expect from Our Coverage
Beyond the live broadcast, ITV Rugby Central offers in‑depth pre‑match talk shows, player interviews and post‑game breakdowns. Our analysts use simple stats to explain why a forward’s pick‑and‑go worked or why a back’s kick went wide. You’ll get video highlights within 15 minutes of the final whistle, perfect for sharing on social media or catching up during a lunch break.
We also run a weekly podcast that recaps the best moments, debates big decisions and answers fan questions. If you miss a match, the on‑demand library lets you replay full games or just the key moments. No subscription fees – it’s all part of the ITV Rugby Central experience.
Planning to host a watch party? Our guide includes tips on setting up a great sound system, where to find the best snack deals and how to keep the conversation lively with fun trivia. For example, did you know a Rugby World Cup match features 30 players on the field, 15 per side? That quick fact often sparks a good debate about forward versus back strategies.
Finally, stay tuned for our special ‘World Cup Legends’ series. Each episode revisits classic finals, breaks down game‑changing plays and brings in former stars to share behind‑the‑scenes stories. It’s a great way to add context to the current tournament and see how the sport has evolved.
In short, whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just curious about the hype, ITV Rugby Central gives you everything you need to enjoy the Rugby World Cup without missing a beat. Bookmark this page, check our schedule daily and get ready for a month of non‑stop action.
