World Rugby announces global relief strategy following pandemic coronavirus

World Rugby has announced a short-term relief in the form of a US$100 million relief fund to help the member unions combat the ongoing financial instability following the pandemic coronavirus.

With most of the competitions suspended, boards across the world have announced wage cuts to their respective executives and players to reduce the impact of COVID-19 and now the governing body said the fund will be available subject to appropriate criteria being met.

World Rugby is also planning to modify the 2020 calendar to allow maximum games to happen when the situation improves keeping in mind the player welfare.

“Global sport is facing a crisis never seen before and at this most challenging time we are taking unprecedented action as a sport united to support global rugby, its unions, competitions and players through the enormous challenge presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.," said Sir Bill Beaumont.

“The measures announced today will provide support and short-term relief in the form of a US$100 million relief fund, while we are making excellent progress towards calendar options that reflect and address a dynamic, complex and uncertain environment.

“I have chaired many productive meetings in recent weeks with my union, region, competition and player colleagues and we are moving rapidly towards a viable calendar solution and, while compromises are being made, the outcome will be in the best interests of the whole game.

“This is a process with solidarity, unity and leadership at heart – one that sets a potential blueprint for successful collaboration in the future and I would like to thank everyone for their openness, cooperation and global view.”