The Rise and Future of Rugby in North America

1 August 2025

Rugby in North America? Yep, you read that right. While the sport has long been dominated by nations like New Zealand, England, and South Africa, North America is quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) stepping up to the scrum.

If you haven’t been paying attention, you might be surprised to hear that rugby is growing at a pace that would make a winger jealous. So, what’s behind this rise? And more importantly, where is rugby headed in North America? Buckle up, grab your mouthguard, and let’s dive in!

The Roots of Rugby in North America

Rugby isn’t exactly new to the continent. In fact, it has a history dating back over a century in Canada and the United States.

- Canada: Rugby has been a part of Canadian sports culture since the 1800s, with teams forming as early as the late 19th century. The country even participated in the first-ever Rugby World Cup in 1987.
- USA: Believe it or not, the U.S. actually won an Olympic gold medal in rugby. Twice. In 1920 and 1924. Yeah, it’s been a while, but still—bragging rights!

Despite these early successes, the sport struggled to gain mainstream attention in North America, mostly because it was overshadowed by American football, basketball, and hockey. But times are changing.

Why Rugby Is Growing in North America

1. Major League Rugby (MLR) is a Game-Changer

If rugby in North America were a struggling actor, Major League Rugby (MLR) would be its blockbuster breakout role. Launched in 2018, MLR has provided a professional platform for the sport, bringing together talented players from all over the world while developing homegrown talent.

MLR’s appeal? It combines the physicality of football, the speed of soccer, and the teamwork of basketball—all without the constant commercial breaks.

2. The Allure of Rugby Sevens

Rugby Sevens, the fast-paced, high-scoring version of the game, made its Olympic debut in 2016. The U.S. and Canadian teams have been making waves, and the sport’s quick matches and exciting gameplay have drawn in new fans who might not have the patience for an 80-minute test match.

3. Tired of Football? Rugby’s Got You Covered

With growing concerns over concussions in American football, rugby is stepping in as a safer alternative. Sure, it’s still a contact sport, but rugby’s tackling technique focuses on safety (hint: no head-first collisions). Parents looking for a physical sport with less long-term injury risk are starting to notice.

4. The International Influence

North America’s growing immigrant population has also played a role. Rugby is massive in countries like Fiji, South Africa, the UK, and Australia. As more expats settle in the U.S. and Canada, they’re bringing their love of the game with them—whether by playing, coaching, or simply spreading the rugby gospel.

5. The Social and Club Scene

Rugby isn’t just a sport; it’s a culture. Anyone who’s ever played knows that post-match traditions (yes, including socializing over a drink or two) are just as important as what happens on the field. This welcoming environment is attracting more participants, especially at the amateur and university levels.

The Future of Rugby in North America

Okay, so rugby’s on the rise. But where does it go from here?

1. World Cup Fever

The United States is set to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup (Women’s) and the 2031 Rugby World Cup (Men’s). A home tournament is a golden opportunity to turbocharge rugby’s growth, bringing in more fans, sponsorships, and investment.

If the 1994 FIFA World Cup helped soccer explode in the U.S., why can’t the Rugby World Cup do the same?

2. Expansion of Major League Rugby

MLR is steadily growing, with more teams joining the league and bigger TV deals coming into play. A solid professional league ensures that young players see rugby as a viable career, improving the talent pool for both club and country.

3. Better Youth Development Programs

If rugby wants to compete with other North American sports, it needs to catch kids early. More schools and colleges are introducing rugby programs, and increased funding for grassroots initiatives will be key to long-term success.

4. Crossover Athletes

Imagine an NFL linebacker or an NCAA running back switching to rugby. Well, it’s already happening. Former football players are transitioning to rugby, bringing their athleticism and fan following with them. As more well-known athletes make the jump, rugby’s credibility will only grow.

5. Increased Media Coverage

Let’s be honest—if a sport isn’t on TV, does it even exist? Rugby’s presence on ESPN, NBC Sports, and streaming platforms is getting stronger. More exposure means more interest, which means… you get the idea.

Will Rugby Ever Rival the Big Four?

Let’s keep it real—rugby probably won’t dethrone football, basketball, baseball, or hockey anytime soon. Those sports have decades (or centuries) of dominance.

But does rugby need to be the top dog to be successful? Not at all.

Rugby has something the others don’t: an incomparable camaraderie, a unique blend of physicality and finesse, and a global community that welcomes new fans with open arms. If North America continues investing in the sport, there’s no reason rugby can't become a major force in the years to come.

Final Thoughts

Rugby in North America is no longer just an afterthought. Thanks to Major League Rugby, the Olympics, and an upcoming World Cup, the sport’s growth is undeniable. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a total newbie, now is the perfect time to get on board.

So, will rugby be the next great North American sport? Maybe. One thing’s for sure—it’s no longer flying under the radar.

And if you’re still skeptical, just watch a game. Once you see a guy the size of a refrigerator sprinting at full speed and sidestepping defenders like a ballerina, you’ll understand why rugby fever is spreading fast.