Reports: World Rugby Global Calendar Edges Closer

The possibility of a global rugby season will take a few steps forward in the coming days when the issue comes under review during a series of committee meetings in Buenos Aires.

World Rugby’s executive‚ rugby regional advisory‚ audit and risk and regulations committees and the Rugby World Cup board will meet with new chairman Bill Beaumont and vice-chairman Agustín Pichot.

An insider has told Business Day that he was optimistic there would be progress to move towards a global season as there was willingness from most countries for it to happen.

Rugby’s current Test and tours schedule is in place until 2019‚ however the calendar is clear from 2020 and beyond‚ therefore presenting the perfect time to start a global calendar.

Other agenda items at the gathering include a review of the closed law trials currently operational in competitions across the world‚ player welfare injury-prevention strategies‚ mass-participation and high-performance strategies‚ a review of rugby sevens at Rio 2016‚ Rugby World Cup 2019 preparations and Rugby World Cup 2023 host selection process.

“Rugby is currently experiencing record growth with more men‚ women and children than ever before taking up the sport‚” Beaumont said.

“But we must always look ahead and drive strategies that further the welfare of our players at all levels‚ build solid foundations for a sustainable and exciting game for unions‚ players and fans and deliver world-class events. Our committee meetings are an important part of the process and I look forward to productive consideration and discussion with my colleagues in Buenos Aires.”

Pichot added:

“I am delighted to be hosting World Rugby in Argentina.

“I look forward to receiving my colleagues for a week of detailed discussions that will further the development of the game at all levels.” [Business Day]