Since the tournament began in 1996, no team has matched the sustained dominance of New Zealand. Across both the Tri Nations era (1996–2011; 2020) and the Rugby Championship era (2012–present), the All Blacks have lifted the trophy 20 times — more than the other three nations combined.
The Tri Nations was established as an annual competition between New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. In the 16 seasons before its rebrand, New Zealand claimed 11 titles, including three separate streaks of three or more consecutive championships.
South Africa and Australia each managed three titles during that period, but neither could match the All Blacks’ consistency.
Argentina Rugby Joins Competition In 2012
Argentina joined the competition in 2012, expanding it to four teams and rebranding it as The Rugby Championship. The change brought fresh dynamics, but the balance of power stayed largely the same.
New Zealand has won nine of the 13 editions, while South Africa (2019, 2024) and Australia (2015) have been the only other champions. Argentina, despite notable wins over each of the other three nations, is still seeking its first title.
2025 New Zealand All Blacks vs South Africa – Men’s
Why Are All Blacks So Good In The Rugby Championship?
New Zealand’s sustained success comes from a blend of depth, adaptability and experience. From legends like Dan Carter and Richie McCaw in the Tri Nations era to modern stars like Beauden Barrett, Ardie Savea and Will Jordan, the All Blacks have consistently fielded world-class squads.
The numbers are equally impressive. New Zealand’s all-time record in the competition stands at 103 wins from 139 matches, with a +1,562 points differential. They’ve scored 4,208 points since 1996 — more than 1,000 ahead of second-place South Africa — and have finished last only twice in nearly three decades.
2025 New Zealand All Blacks vs South Africa – Men’s
The All Blacks have also dominated their direct rivalries within the tournament. They’ve held the Bledisloe Cup against Australia 23 times since 1996 and the Freedom Cup against South Africa 16 times. Even when they haven’t topped the table, New Zealand has remained in the title hunt until the final rounds.
Springboks, Wallabies Chasing All Blacks
While South Africa’s five titles and Australia’s four speak to their own periods of success, neither has matched New Zealand’s sustained excellence. The Springboks have proven to be the All Blacks’ most consistent challengers in recent years, while Australia is in a rebuilding phase under Joe Schmidt.
In short, the All Blacks are not only the most successful team in Rugby Championship history — they are the competition’s defining force.
The Rugby Championship 2025 Schedule
Aug. 16
Aug. 23
Sept. 6
Sept. 13
Sept. 27
Oct. 4
How To Watch The Rugby Championship 2025
In the United States, rugby fans can watch 2025 The Rugby Championship on FloRugby and the FloSports App.
How To Watch Rugby Matches In The United States On FloRugby
The URC will stream all its matches on FloRugby and the FloSports app in the United States. FloRugby and FloSports also are the U.S. home to:
FloRugby also is home to match archives and match replays.
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