World Rugby has confirmed an update to the international fixture schedule, as Chile replaces Samoa to face Italy.
The match is set to take place as part of the Quilter Nations Series in Genoa on November 22.
This announcement heralds a historic moment, as this will be the first ever Test match between the two nations.
Why has Chile replaced Samoa?
The change comes after a request from Samoa, who are buckling in to pour all of their effort into achieving Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification.
Chile have already qualified for the tournament, which will take place in Australia at the end of 2027, after a two-leg victory over Samoa.
After this loss, Samoa have refocused their priorities towards the Rugby World Cup 2027 Final Qualification Tournament, which will take place in Dubai over ten days in the middle of November.
Who has qualified for RWC 2027?
This will be the last chance for the Pacific Island nation to qualify, as the tournament’s prize is the final spot in the RWC, with 23 of the 24 places having already been filled.
Samoa will face Namibia, Belgium and either Brazil or Paraguay, depending on who wins the upcoming Sudamérica 3.
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of Six Nation Rugby, thanked Italy for “accommodating the change to their fixture”, and added that “Chile are an exciting addition to the November window, bringing their culture and identity into the Series, whilst offering them a huge opportunity to develop as they build towards the Rugby World Cup in Australia.”
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