New Zealand were awarded the hosting rights for Rugby World Cup 2021 on 14 November, 2018 following a vote by the World Rugby Council in Dublin. Following extensive hosting interest, the selection process saw New Zealand and Australia submit strong and compelling bids. A comprehensive evaluation report was produced for the World Rugby Council to consider based on agreed hosting criteria.
In February 2020, the tournament dates were announced and the brand unveiled. The brand was developed by World Rugby and New Zealand Rugby in close collaboration with local cultural advisors. The RWC 2021 brand has the vitality and connectivity of the ocean’s waters at its heart and features the ‘Ngaru’ – a symbol of the ocean’s waves that surround New Zealand and the many shores that teams will travel from to compete in the tournament.