World Rugby have confirmed that no changes to the lawbook will occur following the conclusion of the annual Shape of the Game meeting.<\/p>\n
Instead, global<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n Outcome of the Shape of the Game meeting<\/p>\n \u201cThe feedback from around the world is that the game on the field is broadly in a positive place,\u201d World Rugby<\/a> Chair Brett Robinson said in a statement from the game\u2019s governing body.<\/p>\n \u201cThe message this week is to focus on better explaining, selling and celebrating our sport in what is an ever more competitive environment.<\/p>\n \u201cOur heritage and our values are strengths, and so too is our capacity to innovate. By continuing to enhance the rugby experience \u2013 how we present the game, how we tell our stories, how we connect with fans and how we protect our players \u2013 we will futureproof the sport and unlock even greater global relevance and value.\u201d<\/p>\n Nigel Owens\u2019 position on law tweak that Springboks coaches believe makes rugby \u2018safer\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n And that the focus should therefore be on enhancements and advancements to unlock the full fan and commercial potential of the sport \u2013 through the way the sport is presented, elevation of its personalities and fan experience.<\/p>\n \u201cWith rugby entering an exciting era of new international competitions on the road to men\u2019s and women\u2019s Rugby World Cups in the US in 2031 and 2033 respectively, Shape of the Game is integral to World Rugby\u2019s 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,\u201d the statement added.<\/p>\n