On 14 November, Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho achieved World Rugby full member status, expanding the organization to 133 national unions worldwide. This landmark decision highlights the growth of rugby in these nations, focusing on inclusivity and development opportunities, particularly following a successful Olympic campaign in rugby sevens.
On 14 November, the World Rugby Council approved Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho’s ascension to full member status, bringing the total number of national unions within World Rugby to 133 across six global regions. Egypt, which has been an associate member since 2022, has successfully hosted multiple regional rugby sevens tournaments. Lesotho has been a member of Rugby Africa since 2016 and an associate member of World Rugby since 2022, actively participating in regional competitions. Guatemala has also been part of the international rugby community as an associate member since 2016, with a strong domestic rugby presence, consisting of 29 teams in both men’s and women’s categories.
World Rugby continues to expand globally, focusing on the growth of the women’s game and rugby sevens, especially after the successful Olympic Games in Paris. The Chair of World Rugby, Brett Robinson, expressed his elation at the recognition of these three nations, noting their ongoing commitment to rugby development, inclusivity, and the overall growth of the sport.
Leaders from each country shared their sentiments regarding this achievement. Hussam Saheb, President of the Egypt Rugby Football Union, emphasized that this elevation is a significant milestone for Egyptian rugby, enabling access to broader international competitions and development opportunities. Fetang Selialia, President of the Federation of Lesotho Rugby, lauded full membership as a critical advancement for rugby in Lesotho, enhancing talent development and infrastructure commitments. Ángel Gaytán, President of the Guatemala Rugby Federation, extended gratitude to World Rugby for the recognition and acknowledged the support received during their membership journey.
The recent elevation of Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho to full member status within World Rugby exemplifies the federation’s commitment to expanding the reach and inclusivity of rugby globally. This decision reflects the growth achievements of these nations in the sport, particularly emphasizing diversity and engaging women in rugby. Full membership provides these countries with increased opportunities for international competition, funding, and training resources, which are essential for the further development of rugby at both grassroots and competitive levels.
The elevation of Egypt, Guatemala, and Lesotho to full member status in World Rugby represents a significant milestone in the global growth of rugby, particularly in emerging nations. This development not only highlights the dedication of these countries to cultivating the sport but also reinforces World Rugby’s mission to enhance the game’s reach and accessibility. The achievements in inclusivity and participation, especially among women and youth, are heralded as vital for the future of rugby in these nations.
Original Source: www.world.rugby
