A Milestone Measured in Moments and Stats

Celebrating the All Blacks’ 500th Test Victory

On July 5, 2025, under the roof of Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium, the All Blacks added another golden chapter to their illustrious rugby legacy. With a narrow yet thrilling 31–27 victory over France, New Zealand’s national rugby team achieved a landmark that no other international side has reached: 500 Test match wins.

This is not just a number. It’s a reflection of a century of excellence, a culture of relentless pursuit, and a legacy of inspiring generations.

Built Over Time: A Legacy Like No Other

The All Blacks played their first official Test match in 1903 against Australia, a 22–3 victory that heralded the beginning of something extraordinary. Since then, the men in black have not only maintained the highest winning percentage in international rugby but have also redefined what dominance means in team sports.

Here are some standout statistics that underscore this unparalleled success:

• 500 Test Wins: More than any other team in rugby history.
• Winning Percentage: Over 77% in more than 650 Tests.
• World Cup Titles: Three-time Rugby World Cup champions (1987, 2011, 2015).
• Winning Streaks: Held the world’s longest Test win streak (18) on multiple occasions.
• Bledisloe Cup: Retained the cup for all but five years since 1982.

Moments that Shaped the Milestone

Each of those 500 wins tells a story — a try-saving tackle, a last-minute drop goal, a haka that sent shivers down spines. But some moments live forever:

• 1905 – “The Originals” Tour: A statement to the rugby world with 34 wins in 35 matches.
• 1978 – Grand Slam Tour: The first southern hemisphere team to beat all four Home Nations in one tour.
• 1995 – Jonah Lomu: A phenomenon was born, redefining the wing position and global appeal of the game.
• 2011 & 2015 World Cups: Back-to-back titles, cementing the All Blacks as the greatest team of the modern era.
• 2023 – Heartbreak and Resolve: A narrow loss to South Africa in the World Cup final became a spark, not a setback.

And now, in 2025, a scrappy, hard-fought win over a defiant French side — in a match where the All Blacks had three tries disallowed — becomes the defining moment that carried them to 500.

A New Era Under Scott Robertson

The 500th win also marked Scott Robertson’s first Test as head coach — and what a way to begin. His appointment was more than just a strategic move; it symbolized the evolution of All Blacks rugby. Known for his innovative mindset, vibrant energy, and respect for culture, “Razor” has inherited a team rich in history and burdened with expectation.

In his debut, the team showed resilience. Will Jordan, back from injury, was electric. Beauden Barrett’s calmness in the dying minutes ensured victory. And despite losing captain Scott Barrett to injury, the team held its nerve — a hallmark of All Blacks rugby.

What the 500 Means to Rugby and to New Zealand

For many Kiwis, the All Blacks are more than a rugby team. They’re a national identity, a source of pride, and a global symbol of excellence. This 500th win is a communal celebration — one felt in local rugby clubs, school fields, and packed living rooms across the country.

It also sets a standard for other nations to aspire to. No team in any major sport boasts such consistent dominance over such a long period. The All Blacks’ blend of tradition, innovation, and humility is a benchmark for success.

Looking Ahead

The road to 600 begins now — but milestones like this invite reflection. What makes the All Blacks different is not just the number of wins, but the way they win: with style, respect, and precision.

As the team moves on to face France again in Wellington, they carry not just the pressure of performance, but the weight of history — a history they continue to build, one match at a time.

500 Wins. Infinite Moments. One Legacy.

From the haka to the final whistle, from grassroots to greatness, the All Blacks remind the world that success isn’t just measured in trophies — it’s measured in the moments that stir hearts and the stats that stand the test of time.