The following teams have already qualified for the 2015 World Cup by finishing in the top 3 of their group in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. England qualified anyhow as they are the host nation:

• Argentina
• Australia
• England
• France
• Ireland
• Italy
• New Zealand (holders)
• Samoa
• South Africa
• Tonga
• Wales
• Scotland

The top 4 teams, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and England will each be in separate pools in 2015. This leaves 8 qualifying places available with about 91 teams aspiring to fill these places. The qualifying process will probably incorporate the European Nations Cup, and some other competions.

More information on qualifying and participating teams will be posted here as it becomes available.

See also the latest Rugby World Cup news as it comes to hand.