New report confirms community rugby contributes US$8.4 billion in social value as global participation grows

'The global value of grassroots rugby’ report, unveiled by World Rugby at its General Assembly in Paris on 26 October, finds that rugby participation contributes US$8.4 billion in value globally and leads to players feeling happier, healthier and more connected.

• Global rugby participation contributes US$8.4 billion in value to society and saves healthcare systems US$1.5 billion worldwide over time
• Increasing women and girls’ participation would add an additional US$2.8bn in value globally
• Rugby participation growing globally with an 11 per cent increase since 2022 to 8.4 million participants across 132 nations
• Rugby players have increased confidence, greater employment prospects and a reduction in mental health and health-related issues
• World Rugby continues to drive welfare initiatives, including lowered tackle height at community level, to make the game more accessible
• Report to drive World Rugby investment in key growth areas over the next decade

Rugby participation contributes US$8.4 billion in value globally and leads to players feeling happier, healthier and more connected, according to a new report commissioned by World Rugby on the social benefits of the sport. 

‘The global value of grassroots rugby’ report highlights the opportunity for an additional US$2.8bn in value globally by continuing to focus on strategic initiatives to close the gender gap and create greater opportunity for girls and women in particular.