You never played rugby and want to know about the rules and where to watch the best rugby league in the world? You're in the right place.

Rugby Union: The Second Most Popular Sport in Europe

Rugby union is the second most popular sport in Europe after football, with millions of passionate fans following domestic and international competitions. While rugby league also has its share of supporters, it is rugby union that dominates the sporting scene in countries like France, England, and Ireland. The French rugby championship, known as the Top 14, is widely regarded as the best domestic rugby competition in the world. Featuring some of the greatest rugby players globally, the league showcases intense matches, high-level strategies, and an electrifying atmosphere. For rugby fans in America, the good news is that Top 14 games, including the playoffs and the final, can be watched live on TV5MONDE USA.

What Is Rugby Union and Where Is It Popular?

Rugby union is a contact sport played by two teams of 15 players each. The objective of the game is to carry, pass, and kick the rugby ball to score points by grounding it over the goal line or kicking it through the uprights. Unlike American football, which involves frequent stoppages, rugby is known for its continuous and dynamic play.

The sport is especially popular in France, England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, as well as in southern hemisphere powerhouses like New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia. Other nations, including Samoa and Tonga, have also developed strong rugby cultures, producing formidable rugby teams.

The Top 14: France’s Elite Rugby Championship

The Top 14 is France’s premier rugby club competition and is often considered the strongest domestic league in world rugby union. The championship features legendary clubs such as Toulouse, Toulon, Racing 92, La Rochelle, and Stade Français, with each team boasting world-class rugby players.

Watch Top 14 highlights on TV5MONDE

The rugby championship operates on a league basis, with teams competing throughout the season for a place in the highly anticipated playoffs. The top six teams qualify for the knockout stage, leading to an intense final showdown that determines the champion. Fans in America can catch all the action from the Top 14, including the playoffs and final, on TV5MONDE.

Key Rugby Union Vocabulary

For those new to rugby union, here are some essential terms to help you understand the rules of rugby:

• Scrum – A scrum is a method of restarting play involving eight forwards from each team interlocking and pushing against each other to gain possession of the rugby ball.

• Maul – A maul is a situation where a player carrying the ball is held by one or more opponents, but teammates also bind onto the player to drive forward.

• Penalty Kick – Awarded to a team when the opposing side commits an infringement. It allows the team to advance or attempt a kick at goal.

• Ruck – A ruck is a phase of play where players contest for the ball on the ground following a tackle.

• Six Nations – One of the most prestigious international rugby union tournaments, the Six nations features England, France, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Italy.

• Goal Line – The line teams must cross with the ball to score a try, just like in Football.

• Drop Kick – A drop kick is a technique used to restart play or score points, where the ball is dropped and kicked as it touches the ground.

• Flankers – Flankers are the key players in a team’s forward pack responsible for tackling and gaining possession.

• Scrum Half – A vital position that connects the forwards and backs, often leading the rugby team’s attack.

International Rugby and the Rugby World Cup

Beyond domestic leagues, international rugby union tournaments like the Rugby World Cup and the Six Nations draw millions of viewers worldwide. Governed by World Rugby, formerly known as the International Rugby Board, these competitions feature the best rugby players from around the world, battling for national pride.

How Rugby Compares to American Football

Rugby shares similarities with American football, such as tackling and strategic play. However, there are key differences: rugby has continuous play without stoppages after each tackle, no forward passes, and players wear minimal protective gear. While gridiron football relies on set plays, rugby’s fluid nature makes it one of the most exciting sports to watch.

Conclusion

With its rich history and competitive nature, rugby union continues to grow in popularity worldwide. The Top 14 remains one of the most thrilling leagues, with its rugby clubs and rugby players setting the highest standards. For American fans eager to follow the action, TV5MONDE USA provides the perfect platform to stream the biggest French rugby matches and watch the highlights of weekend matches. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, rugby offers an exhilarating experience unlike any other.

Watch French rugby TOP 14 on TV5MONDE USA