Governing body of rugby union; runs the Rugby World Cup and global competitions
Scotland Under-20s have advanced to the semi-finals after beating Argentina 44-26, setting up a potential fifth-place finish. Pringle has rotated his squad, hoping to replicate or improve on their 2017 fifth-place benchmark.
World Cup coverage shows a surge in online abuse against players, with authorities noting a rising pattern of racist and discriminatory behavior on and off the pitch. FIFA data indicates a spike in reports to law enforcement and monitoring bodies, while unions call for stronger action from platforms and governments.
England’s captain has warned of a strong response if racist abuse recurs in the July tour match in Santiago del Estero. Players are consulting with teammates from diverse backgrounds, with plan B in place if abuse reoccurs, and the team has expressed support for Argentina’s efforts to prevent it.
ITV has renewed its deal to show all 52 matches of the expanded 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, with subsequent ties to the Nations Championship and Six Nations coverage; World Rugby says the move ensures UK audiences can experience the event across ITV platforms.
Sione Fukofuka has stepped away as Scotland head coach for compassionate, family reasons. Dave Butcher will lead interim duties as Scotland participates in the WXV Global Series, with a return home confirmed amid ongoing personal pressures.
Argentina fly-half Tomas Albornoz has been banned for four matches after admitting intimidation of referee Angus Gardner following a Nations Championship match against England on 18 July. The disciplinary committee recognised his actions as intimidatory, issued a four-match ban, and noted early acceptance of the charge, apologies, and a clean disciplinary history.
Edinburgh Rugby has appointed former Ireland youth coach and ex-Dallas Jackals coach Tim Hodge to join Sean Everitt’s backroom team on a two-year deal, with the URC season set to begin on September 25. The club has also retained Stevie Lawrie and added Tim Sampson and Brad Davis to reshape the attack and defence units.
Courts have allowed a long-running concussion lawsuit involving World Rugby, the RFU, WRU, RFL and affiliated bodies to proceed to trial after a recent ruling. About 500 current and former players claim the governing bodies failed to protect them from brain injuries linked to repeated head impacts. A new law firm now represents the claimants, addressing previous concerns over court-order compliance.
Schools and families have been preparing for the new term while arguing over how to support pupils' mental health. Local NHS and charity services are offering practical tips for first-day anxiety, researchers have reported mental-health gains where communities delay smartphones, and teachers and parents are adapting volunteering and transitions to reduce stress.
The SACAA has obtained flight data and is reviewing whether safety concerns from the recent Cape Town stadium flyover require further action. Airlink has withdrawn its Sept. 1 flyover because weather conditions were forecast to be unsafe. Authorities say a full report with recommendations will be issued after the assessment.
World Rugby has introduced a 4.5 size ball for women, 3% smaller but same weight, to test skills in the WXV Global Series. Players report mixed experiences as teams prepare for matches against Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the U.S. Feedback is being gathered through surveys as the trial runs through September and October.
South Africa has sealed a 3-1 series win over New Zealand in Baltimore after a second-half surge, extending their Rugby World Cup buildup with a dominant performance in the USA.
Various athletes have publicly discussed mental health challenges, including Feaunati discussing therapy after her World Cup win, Humphries reflecting on anxiety and the relief of seeking help, and Jones revealing depression after retirement. A BBC report also covers a missing-persons update and a bee story, illustrating broader human experiences in sport and crisis.
England has defeated Canada in a tight WXV Global Series clash, extending their winning run and setting up a rematch in Toronto and Ottawa.
Wales and South Africa face off in Cardiff in the WXV Global Series opener. Wales are aiming to rebound from nine straight defeats, while South Africa seek to cement their rising form after a World Cup quarter-final. A physical contest is expected with live coverage on BBC platforms.
Joe Marchant has moved to Sale Sharks after a France stint, admitting expectations were high yet he has delivered with enhanced communication and versatility. He credits improved language skills and tactical clarity from Top 14 time, and is aiming to earn a return to England duty while continuing his Prem form.
Shaun Edwards has joined England's Red Roses as a consultant for the remainder of the WXV Global Series, aiming to restore their winning form after a 39-match streak ended with a 26-26 draw with Canada. He will work with defence coach Sarah Hunter ahead of tests against New Zealand, Canada, and the USA.
Scotland Women are chasing a first win in the 2026 WXV Global Series as they host Australia in Edinburgh after back-to-back losses. Interim coach Dave Butcher has named changes to the side and stresses growth as the Scots seek to build on recent lessons.