Rugby takes its name from Rugby School in England, where a handling version of football developed in the early 1800s. It became organized in the 1870s, split into union and league in 1895, and turned professional in 1995.
Timeline
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1823 | Legend says William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran at Rugby School |
| 1845 | Rugby School pupils write the first written rules |
| 1871 | Rugby Football Union founded; first international, Scotland v England |
| 1895 | Northern clubs break away, forming what became rugby league |
| 1987 | First Rugby World Cup |
| 1995 | Rugby union becomes professional |
| 2016 | Rugby sevens joins the Olympics |
Frequently asked questions
Who invented rugby?
The Webb Ellis story is popular but historians consider it a legend; the game evolved at Rugby School.
What is the difference between union and league?
They split in 1895 and have different rules, team sizes and scoring.
When was the first Rugby World Cup?
1987.
