The Business of Rugby Union 2012

The Business of Rugby

In this issue

Following the success of last year’s World Cup in New Zealand, rugby’s focus now shifts to England, which will host the tournament in 2015. Yet money – or rugby’s lack of it – has also created tensions at the heart of the sport

Feb 23, 2012

Off-field infighting detracts from success

Money and management issues have overshadowed the fact that the game of rugby is doing well and winning new fans

Interactive and video

Video: Rugby adds kick to Cardiff economy

Rugby is the national sport of Wales, and success on the pitch can give a huge lift to Welsh self-confidence. The sport also gives a welcome financial boost to the local economy

Interactive graphic: Six Nations form guide and the key players to watch

RBS 6 Nations Championship 2012 - Italy v England

Huw Richards assesses the form of each of the sides in Six Nations, and picks out the key players to look out for

Video: Rugby has reasons for optimism

After a miserable 2011, English rugby is looking to the future. Can they turn things around? And how healthy are the sport’s finances?

Feb 23, 2012

Wars of the roses

Internecine strife among players and managers has been the hallmark of the English game in recent years, and performance has suffered as a result

Feb 23, 2012

Show me the demographics

Corporate sponsorship has not been affected by recent scandals, as the sport remains a favourite of highly desirable consumers

Feb 23, 2012

Opinion: A question of loyalty

Given the international nature of the sport, does it matter where players for national teams were born?

Welsh fans react as they watch Wales score a try against France

Feb 23, 2012

World Cup success masks Wales weakness

The national team may be successful on the pitch, but the club game is far from healthy

The players of Ireland line up for their national anthem

Feb 23, 2012

Ireland invests in home field advantage

Shrewd development and incentives to keep top players in the country have contributed to the game’s domestic expansion

Feb 23, 2012

Japanese rugby prepares for biggest test

The country has many players and ambitions to place Asia on the rugby map, but the sport is struggling to attract local supporters

Feb 23, 2012

Sevens’ growth benefits whole sport

The short, fast game is becoming increasingly popular in its own right, while also introducing new spectators to the traditional version

England players celebrate during the Women's Six Nations match

Feb 23, 2012

Female players cross the advantage line

Currently, the women’s game is still the preserve of amateur participants but it is growing rapidly

Feb 23, 2012

Big events could establish viewing alternative

Broadcasters are betting that success for the home nations will convince sports fans to watch more rugby

The Business of Rugby Union