Springboks and All Blacks meet in Baltimore for series decider
South Africa and New Zealand will meet in Baltimore on Saturday, September 12, 2026, for the fourth and final Test of their Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series, a match that doubles as a high-stakes financial and strategic showcase for the sport's growth in the United States. The Springboks hold a 2-1 series lead and can clinch an outright victory with a win or draw, while the All Blacks must win to level the series. The fixture at M&T Bank Stadium marks the first time a U.S. match has been incorporated into a meaningful Test series between two of rugby's top-ranked nations. The decision to stage the finale in Baltimore is part of a broader strategy to build momentum for the 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup, which the United States will host. World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin stated the goal is to spread rugby in the U.S., calling the country a "sleeping giant" and noting the match demonstrates that financial return is not a barrier to hosting major international fixtures. Financial considerations were a primary driver for the move. SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer said the match was chosen to maximize financial gain and grow the brand in the USA.