Overview
- The tournament runs June 27 to July 18, 2026 across Tbilisi and Kutaisi, with games at Avchala Stadium, AIA Arena and the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, which hosts the final on July 18.
- Fiji, USA, Japan and Uruguay join the Championship after promotion from the 2024 U20 Trophy to complete the 16-team field.
- The format features four pools of four with only pool winners advancing to the semi-finals, while placement matches determine positions five through sixteen.
- Defending champions South Africa are in Pool A with Georgia, Wales and Uruguay, opening against Uruguay on June 27 at Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi.
- World Rugby will trial a lowered legal tackle height to the sternum throughout the competition as part of an enhanced safety initiative.