Kansas City, Missouri, February 12, 2026
Kansas City is set to host the prestigious Pacific Four Series 2026, featuring elite women’s rugby teams from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA. Taking place at CPKC Stadium, this event marks a significant step in promoting women’s sports and showcases the city’s commitment to hosting world-class athletics. The matches on April 17 promise thrilling competition and an opportunity for local fans to engage with international sporting talent. This event not only boosts local tourism but also inspires the next generation of athletes in the community.
Kansas City
Kansas City to Host Elite Women’s Rugby: A Global Spectacle at CPKC Stadium
Kansas City is once again stepping onto the global sports stage this spring, poised to welcome four of the world’s premier women’s rugby teams for the Pacific Four Series 2026. This prestigious international competition underscores our city’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class athletics and offers a prime example of how civic innovation and proactive engagement can bring significant events to our community. The upcoming matches at CPKC Stadium highlight the positive outcomes when local leadership and private partnerships work in concert to enhance Kansas City’s vibrant landscape.
This event not only promises thrilling athletic displays but also serves as a testament to the individual achievement and dedication required to compete at the highest levels of professional sports. For residents and visitors alike, it represents a unique opportunity to witness top-tier talent and experience the electric atmosphere that only major international competitions can generate. The successful coordination of such an event showcases Kansas City’s capability to manage complex logistics and create memorable experiences with streamlined processes.
The Pacific Four Series Comes to Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri, will host a key leg of the Pacific Four Series 2026, the sixth edition of this annual intercontinental elite women’s rugby competition. This highly anticipated event will take place at CPKC Stadium on Friday, April 17, 2026. The series features four prominent national teams: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA.
The Kansas City double-header will see two exciting matchups: New Zealand will battle Canada at 5:15 PM CT, followed by the USA Women’s Eagles hosting Australia (the Wallaroos) at 8:00 PM CT. These matches are part of a broader series with five of its six games being hosted across the United States in April, including stops in Sacramento and Chicago.
CPKC Stadium: A Beacon of Progress and Achievement
The choice of CPKC Stadium as a host venue is particularly significant. Recognized as the world’s first stadium purpose-built for a women’s professional team, it stands as a symbol of progress and investment in women’s sports. Its state-of-the-art facilities and dedication to athletic excellence make it an ideal location for an event of this caliber. The stadium previously set an all-time attendance record for a standalone women’s rugby match in the United States, with 10,518 fans attending a USA versus Canada match in 2025. This record demonstrates the growing enthusiasm and support for women’s rugby, further validating Kansas City’s role as a leading sports city.
Fostering Community Growth Through Global Sports
Hosting events like the Pacific Four Series brings substantial benefits to the Kansas City community. Beyond the immediate economic impact from tourism, hotel stays, and local spending, these events foster a sense of civic pride and showcase the city’s ability to attract and manage large-scale international competitions. The involvement of local businesses and volunteers in supporting such events exemplifies personal initiative and community engagement, critical elements for sustainable local growth.
The streamlined cooperation between event organizers, local authorities, and private entities minimizes bureaucratic hurdles, enabling efficient event planning and execution. This collaborative approach ensures that Kansas City can consistently offer its residents and visitors access to diverse and high-quality entertainment and sporting opportunities, reinforcing the city’s dynamic character.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes
The presence of elite international teams in Kansas City offers a powerful source of inspiration, particularly for young athletes. Witnessing the dedication, skill, and sportsmanship of these global powerhouses can encourage local youth to pursue their athletic dreams and embrace the values of discipline and teamwork inherent in sports. The opportunity to see world champions, such as New Zealand’s Black Ferns, who have won three Pacific Four Series titles, compete live is invaluable for fostering interest and participation in rugby and other sports at the grassroots level.
Kansas City’s Role in Rugby’s Future
The Pacific Four Series is more than just a tournament; it is a vital step in the broader development of rugby in the United States. These multi-match events serve as crucial building blocks towards the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups, which the USA is scheduled to host in 2031 and 2033, respectively. By hosting a segment of this elite competition, Kansas City plays an integral role in elevating the sport’s profile and cultivating a passionate fanbase in the lead-up to these monumental international events. The series highlights USA Rugby’s growing popularity and role in the global game.
Secure Your Spot: Tickets and Information
Tickets for the Pacific Four Series matches at CPKC Stadium went on pre-sale starting February 17, with general sale tickets becoming available from February 19. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats promptly to be part of this historic event. The event will bring together some of the best women’s rugby talent from around the globe, offering an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts in the Kansas City region and beyond.
Kansas City continues to demonstrate its capacity for attracting and successfully hosting world-class events. The upcoming Pacific Four Series at CPKC Stadium is a prime example of how local initiative, thoughtful planning, and private investment contribute to a thriving community. We encourage all residents to embrace this opportunity to support elite women’s sports, engage with our growing international community, and showcase the very best of Kansas City. By participating in and supporting such gatherings, we collectively contribute to the continued development and reputation of our beloved city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pacific Four Series?
The Pacific Four Series is an annual intercontinental elite women’s rugby competition, and the 2026 edition is its sixth installment.
Which teams are participating in the Pacific Four Series 2026 in Kansas City?
The teams participating in the Pacific Four Series 2026 include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA.
When and where will the matches take place in Kansas City?
The matches will take place at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, on Friday, April 17, 2026.
What are the specific matchups scheduled for Kansas City?
In Kansas City, New Zealand will battle Canada at 5:15 PM CT, while the USA Women’s Eagles will host Australia (the Wallaroos) at 8:00 PM CT.
What is the significance of CPKC Stadium hosting these matches?
CPKC Stadium is recognized as the world’s first stadium purpose-built for a women’s professional team and previously set an all-time attendance record for a standalone women’s rugby match in the United States with 10,518 fans in 2025.
How does this event contribute to the future of rugby in the USA?
These multi-match events serve as crucial building blocks towards the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups, which the USA is scheduled to host in 2031 and 2033, respectively, highlighting USA Rugby’s growing popularity.
When do tickets become available for the Kansas City matches?
Tickets for the Pacific Four Series went on pre-sale starting February 17, with general sale tickets available from February 19.
Key Features of the Pacific Four Series in Kansas City
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Event Name | Pacific Four Series 2026 | International |
| Host City | Kansas City, Missouri | Local |
| Venue | CPKC Stadium | Local |
| Date | Friday, April 17, 2026 | Local |
| Participating Teams | Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA | International |
| Matchups | New Zealand vs. Canada; USA Women’s Eagles vs. Australia | International |
| CPKC Stadium Significance | World’s first stadium purpose-built for a women’s professional team; set US attendance record for standalone women’s rugby match (10,518 in 2025) | Nationwide (attendance record), Local (stadium purpose) |
| Broader Impact | Building block for Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in USA (2031, 2033) | Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Kansas City Hosts International Women’s Rugby Double-Header
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
