Global Partners

Player Welfare

World Rugby’s Player Welfare strategy is to put the player first and to rely on an evidence-based approach for all decisions.


The Player Welfare site has information on the policies and procedures World Rugby use across the sport, whether it’s the surface being played on, the equipment being used or prevention and treatment of injuries. The guidelines cover both playing and medical aspects of the game.


Some of the research that was used in this decision-making process is also available.


World Rugby are always looking to add to the information available to make the game as safe as possible for all, if you have any suggestions please let us know.

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  • Wed 5 July, 2023
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  • Tue 21 June, 2022
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Player Welfare News
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Player Welfare

How hot is too hot to play? World Rugby’s updated heat guidelines explained

In 2025, World Rugby updated its heat and air quality guidelines, setting out all the measures to be taken to support players taking part in World Rugby competitions in hot conditions. The guidelines update the process for, and at what point water breaks are introduced, measures such as extending the half-time break or if a game needs to be postponed or suspended.
Read now on World Rugby
Fri 27 June, 2025
· 1 min read
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Discipline

How rugby’s new faster and simpler disciplinary trial works

The upcoming international window and the men’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia will see a new, faster and simpler disciplinary process being trialled. The trial will first apply to the England XV v France XV match on Saturday, 21 June, and then to all World Rugby competitions and international tests where World Rugby is responsible for managing the disciplinary process, from Friday, 27 June.
Read now on World Rugby
Fri 20 June, 2025
· 1 min read
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Shape of the Game

Shape of the Game 2025 reinforces collaborative approach to sustaining rugby’s long-term vitality

World Rugby’s Shape of the Game 2025 conference has reinforced its commitment to the core principles that sustain the sport’s vitality on the field, emphasising a bold vision for its future. With transformative men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups in England this year and Australia in 2027 on the horizon, setting the stage for game changing men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups in the USA in 2031 and 2033. Rugby is focused on ensuring long-term growth and success on and off the field.
Read now on World Rugby
Wed 5 March, 2025
· 2 min read
PLAYER WELFARE VIDEOS
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Tue 21 June, 2022
Return to play after a concussion in elite rugby