rugby

Rugby refers to a family of contact team sports that originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century. The two dominant codes are rugby union and rugby league, which share a common origin at Rugby School in England in 1823 but have since developed separate rules and competitions.

Rugby union is played with 15 players per side on a rectangular pitch. Scoring comes from tries (5), conversions (2), penalties (3), and drop goals (3). The ball is advanced mainly by running and kicking; forward passes are illegal, and lineouts and contested scrums are features of play. The sport turned professional in 1995. Major competitions include the Rugby World Cup, the Six Nations, and domestic leagues such as Premiership Rugby and the Top 14. World Rugby is the global governing body.

Rugby league is played with 13 players per side. It emphasizes a six-tackle rule, after which possession changes. Scoring awards tries (4), goals (2), and field goals (1). Scrums exist but are less contested than in union. The leading professional competitions are the National Rugby League (NRL) in Australia and the Super League in Europe. Rugby league is governed internationally by the International Rugby League.

Rugby sevens is a faster variant with seven players per side, played on a shortened schedule, and has been part of the Olympic program since 2016.

Equipment includes an oval ball, boots with studs, and mouthguards. Rugby is widely played worldwide, with extensive grassroots participation and ongoing safety and development initiatives.