Rugby explained for football fans

For many football fans, rugby can seem like a mystery. But once you’ve watched a live match, you’ll instantly recognise the passion – it’s familiar, and perhaps even stronger.

So, what makes rugby special:

Passion & atmosphere. The stadium is full of energy, but there’s more respect and less aggression.

Physicality & pace: Rugby is tough yet fair. Every inch counts and every referee decision is final.

Tactics & teamwork: As with football, it relies on clever moves, smart positioning and perfect coordination.

The best part is that even newcomers quickly grasp what’s happening. The excitement hits you instantly, especially when watching live in the stands.

Although rugby may appear chaotic, it is actually governed by clear principles. Here’s a quick overview:

Objective:

• Two teams of 15 players aim to score more points than the opponent.
• The ball can only be passed backwards, but it can be carried or kicked forwards.
• The game is played on a rectangular pitch with H-shaped goalposts.

How to score:

• Try (5 points): Ball grounded in the opponent’s in-goal area.
• Conversion (2 points): A kick over the crossbar after a try.
• Penalty kick / Drop goal (3 points each): Awarded for fouls or from open play.

Difference to American Football:

• No heavy gear (only mouthguards).
• The game flows continuously with few interruptions.
• More fluid play, more teamwork, less specialization.

Unique aspects:

• No arguing with the referee – respect is key.
• Tactics, possession, and endurance define success.
• The match lasts 2×40 minutes, with a 10-minute halftime.

Rugby isn’t just battles between nations – they showcase some of the best players ever.

🇫🇷 Antoine Dupont – The French mastermind. Fast, intelligent, and creative.
🇿🇦 Pieter-Steph du Toit – Two-time World Champion, a force of nature.
🇿🇦 Eben Etzebeth – Pure power, the rock of South Africa’s defense.
🇳🇿 Ardie Savea – Explosive, relentless, emotional – the heart of the All Blacks.
🇿🇦 Cheslin Kolbe – Small, quick, deadly. Pure magic on the wing.
🇿🇦 Damian de Allende – The unsung hero in South Africa’s backline.
🇳🇿 Will Jordan – Try machine: 38 tries in 40 tests!
🇳🇿 Beauden Barrett – The magician. Experience, vision, and clutch brilliance.
🇮🇪 Caelan Doris – Ireland’s quiet leader and powerhouse.
🇫🇷 Damian Penaud – The finisher. Speed, strength, unstoppable momentum.

These names give rugby a face. When Dupont delivers a genius pass or Etzebeth flattens a rival, you’ll know: this is world-class rugby.

Perhaps it’s time for a new sporting challenge.

How about spending an afternoon in the stadium? New chants. New rituals. New perspectives.

Rugby isn’t just football’s little brother – it has a whole different world. And it’s worth exploring!

Want to experience it live this year?
Find official tickets and packages for the Autumn Internationals 2026 and Six Nations 2026 with us.
No stress. No expertise needed. Just curiosity and excitement.

Once you’ve seen a top match at Twickenham or Stade de France, you’ll want to come back again and again.