1987day.year
First ever Rugby World Cup kicks off with New Zealand playing Italy at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand.
On May 22, 1987, the inaugural Rugby World Cup began at Eden Park in Auckland, with New Zealand defeating Italy in the opening match.
Organized by the International Rugby Football Board, the first Rugby World Cup kicked off on May 22, 1987.
Host nation New Zealand faced Italy at Eden Park before a capacity crowd.
New Zealand secured a convincing victory, setting the tone for the tournament's competitive spirit.
A total of 16 teams participated across New Zealand and Australia, introducing global audiences to rugby union's premier event.
The successful launch boosted rugby's popularity worldwide and established the World Cup as a quadrennial sporting spectacle.
By the tournament's final, New Zealand would claim the title, becoming the first-ever Rugby World Cup champions.
Rugby World Cup
New Zealand
Italy
Eden Park
Auckland