World Rugby: grassroots rugby participation represents a value of $8.4bn for society

"Rugby participation contributes $8.4bn (€7.9bn) in social value" as of 2022-23 in 132 nations, according to "The global value of grassroots rugby", a report commissioned by World Rugby, conducted by Portas Consulting and published on 26/10/2023. The study looks at the social return on investment (SROI) generated by participation in rugby worldwide.

"Global rugby participation contributes $8.4bn in value to society based on a range of health, social and economic factors, including mental and physical health, social cohesion and interaction, wellbeing, education and employment," according to the report.

According to the data collected:
• Playing rugby saves healthcare systems worldwide $1.5bn (€1.4bn) over time
• Increasing the participation of women and girls would add an additional value of $2.8bn (€2.6bn) globally;
• $4.5bn (€4.2bn) in economic benefits is generated by rugby participants, volunteers and staff.

"We wanted to develop a business case that highlights the benefits of global rugby participation for all to enhance the brand of the sport, deliver sustainable investment, and…