SYDNEY (AP) — Coming off their first winless tour of Europe since 1958 and losers of 10 of their 15 matches this year, things won't get any easier for the Wallabies to start the 2026 season.

Rugby Australia said Wednesday that the Wallabies would open their 14-test 2026 season with matches against Six Nations heavyweight and fourth-ranked Ireland, followed by fifth-ranked France the following week.

A year ahead of Australia hosting the 2027 World Cup, the Wallabies' schedule next year also includes the new Nations Championship along with home tests against South Africa, New Zealand and Japan.

Australia is set to open its season against Ireland in Sydney on July 4, then face France a week later in Brisbane. Current head coach Joe Schmidt’s final game in charge will come against Italy

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