World Rugby is taking steps to reinvigorate the sport of rugby and attract a wider audience over the next ten years. In a recent announcement, the organization outlined a five-phase approach to explore and trial key outcomes from the Shape of the Game forum.
The first phase, set to take effect from 19 March, will focus on Law Application Guidelines aimed at speeding up play. This will be followed by phase two, which involves law amendment recommendations to enhance game continuity. Phase three will see unions and competition owners implementing closed law trials to further improve game flow.
Specialist working groups will be established to delve deeper into the issues identified by the Shape of the Game forum, including on- and off-field sanctions, tackle/ruck/breakdown problems, TMO protocol, replacements, fan experience, and tackle height. New Rugby Labs will also be utilized to assess how various aspects of the game impact speed and safety.
Changes will be introduced within defined moratorium windows for men’s, women’s, and sevens formats. World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont has emphasized the organization’s commitment to increasing global relevance and excitement for both fans and players, especially the next generation. By reimagining rugby’s entertainment factor, World Rugby aims to secure a brighter future for the sport.
