Predictions for the winner of the upcoming Rugby World Cup in 2025 vary among experts and analysts, but several key contenders emerge consistently:
- The British & Irish Lions are predicted by some to win the 2025 Lions tour in Australia, which is a significant event in the rugby calendar, though this is separate from the World Cup itself
- South Africa, the reigning champions with back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles, remain a strong favorite to retain their crown, considered by many as the current kings of men's international rugby
- New Zealand (the All Blacks) are often highlighted as top contenders to reclaim their throne and win another World Cup title, with some statistical models giving them the highest probability among teams to win the 2023 World Cup and by extension maintaining strong prospects for 2025
- France is also a major contender, with strong performances in recent international competitions and predictions favoring them for Six Nations success and potential World Cup victories
- Ireland is mentioned as a competitive side with a solid chance, though slightly behind the top three in most predictions
In summary, the most likely winners of the Rugby World Cup in 2025, based on expert predictions and statistical models, are South Africa, New Zealand, and France, with the British & Irish Lions also a notable force in the rugby year but not directly in the World Cup. South Africa and New Zealand tend to be the top favorites, with France and Ireland as strong challengers
