The rivalry between the Chiefs (Waikato, NZ) and the ACT Brumbies (Canberra, AU) remains one of the most competitive cross-Tasman fixtures in Super Rugby Pacific. Historically, these two sides have frequently met in high-stakes playoff matches, with their clashes often deciding the pathway to the Grand Final. As of April 2026, the Brumbies hold the most recent victory, having staged a dramatic second-half comeback in Canberra.
2026 Season: Round 6 Thriller in Canberra
The most recent encounter took place on Friday, March 20, 2026, at GIO Stadium. In a match that celebrated Brumbies prop James Slipper becoming the most-capped Super Rugby player of all time (203 caps), the home side secured a clinical comeback victory.
Match Summary: Brumbies 33 – 24 Chiefs
Despite the Chiefs leading by 17 points with just 24 minutes remaining, the Brumbies "flicked a switch," scoring three tries in just over ten minutes. The game was sealed in the 79th minute when speedster Corey Toole ran nearly the length of the field following an interception, just after Chiefs playmaker Damian McKenzie missed a critical penalty that would have put the visitors back in front.
| Metric | ACT Brumbies | Chiefs |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 33 | 24 |
| Tries | 5 (Toole, Meredith, Cale, Lonergan, etc.) | 3 (McKenzie, Vaa’i, Coombes-Fabling) |
| Conversions | 4/5 | 3/3 |
| Penalty Goals | 0/0 | 1/2 |
| Metres Gained | 534m | 544m |
Historical Head-to-Head and Playoff Drama
The history of the Chiefs vs Brumbies is defined by clinical playoff performances and narrow margins. The Brumbies were the first team to deny the Chiefs a semi-final spot in 2004, while the Chiefs famously defeated the Brumbies to secure back-to-back titles in 2013.
Key Historic Encounters
- 2025 Semi-Final: The Chiefs dominated the Brumbies 37–17 in Hamilton to reach the Grand Final. Damian McKenzie was the star, contributing 22 points.
- 2013 Grand Final: The Chiefs secured their second consecutive title with a 27–22 win over the Brumbies at FMG Stadium Waikato.
- 2004 Semi-Final: The Brumbies defeated the Chiefs 37–20, marking the first time the Chiefs had ever reached the Super Rugby playoffs.
2025 Semi-Final: The Chiefs dominated the Brumbies 37–17 in Hamilton to reach the Grand Final. Damian McKenzie was the star, contributing 22 points.
2013 Grand Final: The Chiefs secured their second consecutive title with a 27–22 win over the Brumbies at FMG Stadium Waikato.
2004 Semi-Final: The Brumbies defeated the Chiefs 37–20, marking the first time the Chiefs had ever reached the Super Rugby playoffs.
Tactical Battle: Tactical Kicking vs. Counter-Attack
The modern tactical divide between these sides often pits the Brumbies' structured set-piece and tactical kicking against the Chiefs' lethal counter-attacking and ruck speed.
- The Brumbies' Strength: Their "rolling maul" and set-piece efficiency remain among the best in the competition. In 2026, the inclusion of veterans like James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa provides a platform for their dangerous backline featuring Corey Toole and Tom Wright.
- The Chiefs' Edge: Under the guidance of Damian McKenzie, the Chiefs prioritize high-tempo "transition" rugby. They excel at punishing defensive lapses, utilizing the speed of Cortez Ratima and the power of Samisoni Taukei'aho.
The Brumbies' Strength: Their "rolling maul" and set-piece efficiency remain among the best in the competition. In 2026, the inclusion of veterans like James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa provides a platform for their dangerous backline featuring Corey Toole and Tom Wright.
The Chiefs' Edge: Under the guidance of Damian McKenzie, the Chiefs prioritize high-tempo "transition" rugby. They excel at punishing defensive lapses, utilizing the speed of Cortez Ratima and the power of Samisoni Taukei'aho.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the last Chiefs vs Brumbies game? The ACT Brumbies won the most recent match 33–24 on March 20, 2026, in Canberra.
Where is the Brumbies' home stadium? They play at GIO Stadium in Canberra, Australia.
Who is the most-capped Super Rugby player? As of March 2026, Brumbies prop James Slipper holds the record with over 203 appearances, surpassing Wyatt Crockett.
Did the Chiefs beat the Brumbies in the 2025 playoffs? Yes, the Chiefs defeated the Brumbies 37–17 in the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific semi-final.
How many Super Rugby titles have the Chiefs won? The Chiefs have won two Super Rugby titles (2012 and 2013), one of which was won by defeating the Brumbies in the final.
Who is the current Chiefs captain? As of the 2026 season, Luke Jacobson leads the Chiefs.
What was the score in the 2013 Final? The Chiefs defeated the Brumbies 27–22 in Hamilton.
How many tries did Corey Toole score in the 2026 Round 6 match? Corey Toole scored the final try of the match in the 79th minute to secure the win.
Is Damian McKenzie still playing for the Chiefs? Yes, Damian McKenzie remains a pivotal playmaker for the Chiefs in the 2026 season.
When is the next Chiefs vs Brumbies game? The regular season Round 6 match has concluded; any further matchups would occur in the 2026 playoffs.