Global governing body for rugby union since 1886, organising Rugby World Cup and international competitions.
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.
Parents and teachers have shared practical steps to help children handle school transitions. Specialists and families say scheduling playdates, connecting children with older students, mapping routes and encouraging early involvement in clubs or sports reduce anxiety and build friendships before the term begins.
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 Airlink has withdrawn its Sept. 1 flyover because weather conditions were forecast to be unsafe.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 tested a size 4.5 ball in the WXV Global Series, 3% smaller than the men’s size five but with the same weight. England players report mixed effects on grip, passing and kicking, with some benefits cited by Wales. The trial aims to better suit women’s physiology, while officials gather data across September–October.
South Africa has taken a 2-1 lead in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, with Baltimore set to host the fourth Test. World Rugby is exploring US games to boost revenue and profile, while unions weigh the idea against potential backlash from traditional locales.
A beekeeper has rehabilitated a bumblebee that survived extreme conditions, highlighting resilience and the power of care. The story follows Phoebee’s journey from roadside injury to a viral moment that grounded readers in authentic small acts of kindness.
Sion Parry, named Wales-born captain of Ebbw Vale, has been allotted national duties with Canada, missing the SRC early rounds as he chases a World Cup spot in 2027. He balances carpentry with international rugby as he trains for Tests against Fiji, Japan and the USA in the Pacific Nations Cup and beyond.
Two prominent rugby stars make headlines this week: Georgia Evans of Wales and England’s Jonny Kildunne, as the sport’s profile grows with domestic moves and personal milestones. Evans seals engagement and family plans amid a season of triumphs; Kildunne opens up about her move to Bristol and ADHD management.
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, working with defence coach Sarah Hunter as England prepare for matches against New Zealand and other nations. The move follows England’s 26-26 draw with Canada that ended their 39-game winning streak.
Scotland Women are chasing their first win in the 2026 WXV Global Series as they host Australia in Edinburgh after back-to-back defeats. Interim coach Dave Butcher emphasises growth and resilience, with the Scots aiming to overturn a poor home record against the Wallaroos.
Canada has defeated England 24-21 in Toronto, snapping England’s four-year, 41-game unbeaten streak. The win sets up a rematch in Ottawa on 23 October, as Canada capitalizes on a record North American crowd of 18,621. England sought attacking momentum but was edged by Canada's composed showing and late Seumanutafa score.
Scotland has moved up in the world rankings and will host New Zealand, Australia and Japan at Murrayfield next month as part of Finals Weekend, with a further fixture to be announced. Townsend’s side are preparing for the 2027 Rugby World Cup with warm-up matches including a potential home-and-away against France.