World Rugby has unveiled the 2025 law book, alongside a revamped and more user-friendly laws of the game app which is now available for download.
The latest edition incorporates the innovative new Global Law Trials, which officially came into effect across the game on 1 January, 2025, promoting a faster flowing game.
The app, available through the iOS App store and Android Play Store, has been rebuilt and includes the laws of the game, the different variations of the game, law clarifications, application guidelines, and match official signals. Content is available in 12 languages.
The law book and app introduce a number of minor changes in terminology which were agreed with the World Rugby Council in November 2024. These form part of a programme to make incremental adjustments to the terms used in the game.
In line with World Rugby’s ambition to increase game accessibility and relevance, laws will begin to reflect common usage, and to make the game easier to understand for fans, players and match officials alike. For example, references to the “goal-line" in the laws becomes the “try-line" which is what the vast majority of fans, players and coaches call it anyway.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: “We've seen some fabulous rugby being played at both the community and elite game around the world in recent months, which all stems back to the progression of the laws of the game and the way players and coaches adapt and build their styles around them. We also want the language we use around the game to become easier to understand, and therefore to play, watch and to officiate. It also creates fewer barriers to new fans to our game.”
The launch follows confirmation that the implementation of Global Law Trials, and a focus on opening access to a ball catcher, is already making a significant impact on the game. Data from the Autumn Nation Series showed more than two additional minutes of ball-in-flow time at test level, faster ruck speeds averaging under three seconds, and a streamlined total match duration reduced by more than three minutes and 30 seconds – enhancing the flow and excitement of the sport.
To visit the World Rugby laws website, click here.
