Rugby union's July calendar has offered a compelling mix of emerging talent and top-tier international competition, headlined by a mouth-watering junior showpiece.
The World Rugby Junior World Championship 2026 reaches its conclusion with France set to face defending champions South Africa in the final in Georgia. Les Bleuets booked their place courtesy of a late Adrien Drault try, while South Africa overcame England in their semifinal to set up the title decider, with all 16 teams in action across two days to determine the final placings.
At senior level, the inaugural Nations Championship and the Nations Cup have been reshaping the World Rugby Rankings, reviving rivalries first forged at previous World Cups as the third round of fixtures unfolds.
There was disciplinary business to attend to as well. World Rugby confirmed sanctions for a number of players following red cards at the Junior World Championship, while Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada received an automatic two-match suspension over comments about match officiating.
Looking ahead, England have confirmed a demanding schedule, facing South Africa, Fiji and Argentina before a November slate against Australia, Japan and New Zealand.
_Reporting compiled from World Rugby and Planet Rugby._