(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
World Rugby has unveiled a new six-year strategic plan for 2026–2031 aimed at strengthening the global development of rugby and expanding its reach across all levels of the sport.
Titled “Powering Rugby. Uniting the Game. Enriching Lives.”, the strategy outlines a long-term vision to grow the sport through stronger events, improved investment, and enhanced support for member unions worldwide.
Focus on global growth and development
The new roadmap highlights key priorities including increasing participation, improving fan engagement, and expanding rugby’s presence in emerging markets.
Officials say the plan has been developed after wide consultation with unions, players, fans, and stakeholders across different regions of the sport.
Women’s rugby and competitions to expand
A major focus of the strategy is the continued growth of women’s rugby, which has seen rapid development in recent years. The plan also supports the expansion of global competitions such as the Rugby World Cup events, the WXV series, and newly structured international tournaments set to debut in 2026.
Player welfare and sustainability
Player welfare remains a central pillar of the strategy, with commitments to strengthen safety programs and ensure long-term sustainability at all levels of the game.
World Rugby also aims to modernize the international calendar, introducing new formats and competitions such as the Nations Championship and World Rugby Nations Cup.
A future-driven vision
The governing body says the strategy is designed to help rugby adapt to a fast-changing global sports environment while staying true to the core values of the game.
