World Rugby has agreed to allocate an initial £26.5 million relief package to unions in greatest immediate need of support following a detailed independent evaluation and subsequent approval of union applications by the World Rugby Executive Committee.
This initial allocation is to both established and emerging nations in line with the global £75 million COVID-19 relief strategy previously announced to assist unions through to the eventual resumption of the sport.
World Rugby announces global COVID-19 relief strategy
- All stakeholders unified in tackling the unprecedented COVID-19 challenge
- Productive dialogue considers viable return to rugby options for the global game
- All potential activities dependent on the global COVID-19 situation
- Approximately US$100 million World Rugby relief fund available for unions
- The collaborative process delivers a blueprint for potential long-term calendar overhaul
World Rugby has announced details of a dedicated COVID-19 relief strategy aimed at supporting the global game and mitigating the overall impact of the pandemic on the sport.
Underpinned by a relief fund of approximately US$100 million to assist unions through to the resumption of the sport, the strategy reflects World Rugby’s commitment to leading the sport through its greatest challenge and is a result of a cross-game collaboration that has enabled key decisions to be taken in the spirit of solidarity and partnership.
The relief fund will available for unions requiring immediate emergency funding subject to appropriate criteria being met. It is designed to assist the maximum number of unions for the maximum amount of time while there is a rugby void.
For 6 Nations and SANZAAR unions, the financial package will involve a combination of advances and loans, while World Rugby is also committed to supporting emerging nations and regional associations where required.