World Rugby

When talking about World Rugby, the global governing body that writes the laws, runs marquee events and invests in grassroots growth. Also known as the International Rugby Board, it IRB. World Rugby oversees rugby union, the 15‑a‑side code played from local clubs to international test matches, and rugby sevens, the seven‑player version that brightens the Olympic stage. In addition, it sanctions the Rugby World Cup, the sport’s premier quadrennial showdown that draws billions of viewers.

Why World Rugby Matters

World Rugby’s remit goes beyond ticking boxes on a rulebook. It collaborates with national unions across more than 120 rugby nations, providing funding, coaching curricula and pathways for young athletes. The body also curates the global calendar, ensuring that club seasons, the World Rugby Sevens Series and major tournaments don’t clash. By standardising safety protocols, it protects players at every level, from schoolyards to professional stadiums. This network of relationships means the sport can expand into new markets while keeping the core game consistent.

For fans, World Rugby’s decisions shape the viewing experience. Its partnership with streaming platforms brings live action of the Rugby World Cup, Six Nations and sevens events straight to screens worldwide. The recent launch of a dedicated rugby streaming hub on major services illustrates how the organization embraces digital trends to reach younger audiences. Meanwhile, its grassroots campaigns—like “Get into Rugby” and regional school programmes—turn curiosity into participation, feeding the talent pool that eventually competes on the world stage. All of these moves create a feedback loop where elite competition fuels grassroots interest and vice‑versa.

Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into specific aspects of World Rugby’s ecosystem: streaming rights, the most passionate rugby‑loving countries, equipment guidelines for the sport, and the business side of running global tournaments. Whether you’re a player, coach, fan or just curious about how the sport ticks, the collection offers practical insights and fresh perspectives that showcase the breadth of World Rugby’s influence. World Rugby continues to shape the game, and these pieces will help you see exactly how.