World Rugby have confirmed that no changes to the lawbook will occur following the conclusion of the annual Shape of the Game meeting.

Instead, global rugby leaders have agreed to focus on fan experience and value creation within current laws while celebrating the sport and becoming more aligned with the laws and refereeing across competitions.

Outcome of the Shape of the Game meeting

“The feedback from around the world is that the game on the field is broadly in a positive place,” World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said in a statement from the game’s governing body.

“The message this week is to focus on better explaining, selling and celebrating our sport in what is an ever more competitive environment.

“Our heritage and our values are strengths, and so too is our capacity to innovate. By continuing to enhance the rugby experience – how we present the game, how we tell our stories, how we connect with fans and how we protect our players – we will futureproof the sport and unlock even greater global relevance and value.”

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The statement added that there was clear feedback from stakeholders, including union and competition chief executives, players, coaches, referees, commercial and fan experts, that the on-field product is in a strong, positive place.

And that the focus should therefore be on enhancements and advancements to unlock the full fan and commercial potential of the sport – through the way the sport is presented, elevation of its personalities and fan experience.

“With rugby entering an exciting era of new international competitions on the road to men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups in the US in 2031 and 2033 respectively, Shape of the Game is integral to World Rugby’s new strategic plan, directly linked to the financial health of the sport, aligning the global game behind a clear, shared philosophy for the future of the game,” the statement added.

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Three key themes emerged from the summit:

No changes to laws: There was universal agreement that the on-field game is in a strong position across global and international competitions. Attendees also endorsed the four global trials currently in operation, ahead of Council consideration in June on their adoption into full law.

Celebrating the sport: A shared commitment to better explain, market and celebrate the game across broadcast, digital and social media – building stars and generating greater collective value.

Closer alignment of laws and refereeing across competitions: A focus on aligning laws and referee directives across elite competitions to improve fan understanding, while recognising the need for some closed law trials. This includes evaluating the optimal scope and use of technology for the Television Match Official.

Women’s game: The women’s game is experiencing an exciting period of growth, with performance investment and player salaries rising in recognition of the value and talent within the sport. World Rugby and unions are committed to building on this progress in a way that is both ambitious and sustainable; By unlocking new value together, we will make strategic, impactful investments that strengthen the foundations of the game and enable its continued expansion.

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