Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho Achieve Full Membership in World Rugby
On November 14, 2023, the World Rugby Council confirmed Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho as new full members, bringing the total membership to 133 nations. This advancement highlights the growth of rugby in emerging nations, particularly driven by women’s participation and success in rugby sevens events following the Olympic Games in Paris.
On November 14, 2023, the World Rugby Council approved the elevation of Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho to full member status of the international rugby federation. This move reflects the remarkable growth of rugby in emerging nations, bolstered particularly by increased participation in women’s rugby and the successful rugby sevens events witnessed during the recent Olympic Games in Paris. With this advancement, the total membership of World Rugby now stands at 133 unions across six geographical regions. Egypt, having been an associate member since 2022, has actively participated in regional rugby competitions, corresponding to its strong development of rugby sevens. Similarly, Lesotho, which has been part of Rugby Africa since 2016, has embraced rugby as a platform for both male and female athletes. Guatemala, an associate member since 2016, has also shown commitment to expanding rugby’s reach with numerous teams and participation in Sudamerica Rugby tournaments. World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson expressed his congratulations to the new full members, commending their efforts in advancing rugby within their regions. He noted that the growth of the sport remains integral to World Rugby’s commitment to inclusivity and increased global engagement. The achievements of Egypt, Lesotho, and Guatemala will surely promote further interest and participation in rugby, inspiring future generations of players in these nations.
Rugby continues to grow internationally, with emerging nations such as Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho marking significant milestones by attaining full membership status in World Rugby. This achievement signifies an endorsement of their capabilities and commitment to developing rugby within their respective countries. The recent approval by the World Rugby Council illustrates the organization’s ongoing mission to expand rugby’s reach globally, emphasizing inclusivity and participation among both male and female athletes across various demographics.
In conclusion, the advancement of Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho to full member status within World Rugby showcases the expanding horizon of rugby in various regions. This development not only enhances the visibility of rugby in these countries but also paves the way for increased governmental and partnership support to enhance infrastructure and opportunities within the sport. This step signifies a promising future for rugby as it continues to engage a diverse set of players and communities worldwide.
Original Source: www.world.rugby
