Big news for All Blacks rugby today! New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association (RPA) have officially agreed on a **new three-year Collective Agreement** running from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2028. The deal, announced on February 23, 2026, introduces improved selection fees, better conditions, and stability for professional players — including All Blacks, Black Ferns, All Blacks Sevens, and Black Ferns Sevens — amid the ongoing national coach search and Super Rugby Pacific action.

All Blacks Collective Agreement 2026: Key Highlights

The agreement follows detailed negotiations involving the NZR Board, Provincial Unions, Super Rugby clubs, and the RPA. Main wins for players:

  • New selection fees for All Blacks, Black Ferns, All Blacks Sevens, and Black Ferns Sevens when assembled for Tests and tournaments.
  • Enhanced player welfare, development pathways, and financial security.
  • Three-year stability through 2028 — covering the full lead-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

This deal provides a strong foundation as the search for the next All Blacks head coach continues (decision expected mid-March, with Dave Rennie and Jamie Joseph frontrunners).

Impact on All Blacks & Super Rugby Stars

The agreement boosts morale and retention at a key time. Recent re-signings (Leroy Carter, Emoni Narawa, Simon Parker, Cam Roigard) align with the new terms. Meanwhile, Super Rugby Pacific Round 2 delivered high-scoring thrillers:

  • Highlanders 23-26 Chiefs (tight Dunedin battle, Samisoni Taukei’aho brace for Chiefs).
  • Crusaders 24-50 Brumbies (massive upset in Christchurch, ending 26-year hoodoo).
  • Other results: Waratahs strong, Moana Pasifika impressive.

These performances give emerging talent a platform to impress the incoming national coach.

What This Means for 2026 All Blacks Season

With player stability locked in, focus shifts to the brutal 2026 calendar: 13 Tests, home openers vs France/Italy/Ireland, four-Test South Africa tour (including USA neutral venue), Bledisloe Cup, and November internationals. The new deal supports better preparation and depth.

Full fixtures on our All Blacks 2026 schedule page. Home Test tickets registration open via our Tickets guide.

Stay Updated on All Blacks News

Follow the coach appointment, player updates, and more in our news section. For women’s rugby, check the Black Ferns category.