Rugby, the 'ruffian's game played by gentlemen' is a popular sport that enjoys a large following worldwide. In some countries and communities, rugby is as big a draw as football. Come match day, rugby stadiums are often crammed with fans who have travelled by bus, train, car and even on foot to see their teams in action.
There are two codes of rugby: rugby union and rugby league. Rugby union is governed b the International Rugby Board and consists of 115 unions from different nations. The leading international rugby union competition is the Rugby World Cup that takes place every four years. Rugby league is said to be the toughest and physically demanding sport in the world. The most celebrated rugby league leagues are in Australia, England, New Zealand, France and Papua New Guinea. The most prominent rugby league tournaments are the European Super League and the Rugby Football League's Challenge Cup, in which amateur and professional teams take part.
Rugby has always enjoyed a big travelling support. Teams, domestic and international, often go on tours at home or abroad and faithful fans are always eager to follow. It is common for fans to book flights, take trains and buses and book hotels close to the rugby pitches to lend their support.
The next Rugby World Cup will take place in New Zealand in 2011. Tens of thousands of international rugby fans are expected to be flying into New Zealand to see their team in action.
Famous rugby grounds from around the world include; Twickenham, Lansdowne Road, Stade de France and the Millenium Stadium.
