May 2023 Rugby Gear Insider Archive – Why Rugby Isn’t an Olympic Sport
Welcome to the May 2023 archive. This month we dug into a question many fans ask: why isn’t rugby part of the Olympic programme? The post breaks down the history, the safety worries, and the practical issues that kept rugby out for almost a century.
The History Behind Rugby’s Olympic Exit
Rugby played at the Olympics only twice – in 1900 and 1924. After the 1924 Games, the International Olympic Committee pulled the sport because only a handful of countries took part. Low participation meant the sport didn’t meet the IOC’s push for worldwide representation. Add to that the fact that the game was seen as too rough, and the decision made sense at the time.
Enter Rugby Sevens: A New Chance
Fast forward to 2016. The IOC gave rugby a second life, but not the traditional 15‑a‑side version. They chose rugby sevens – a faster, shorter format with just seven players per side. Matches last 14 minutes, making it easier to fit into a crowded Olympic schedule. Sevens also draws more nations because you need fewer players, and the high‑scoring action keeps viewers hooked.
Even with sevens in the spotlight, the traditional game still faces hurdles. A full‑size match can run 80 minutes, plus halftime and potential extra time. That length is tough to schedule alongside swimming, athletics, and gymnastics. The logistics of bringing a full squad, coaching staff, and equipment to an Olympic village also add cost and complexity.
Safety concerns still linger. Rugby’s physical nature leads to more injuries than many other Olympic sports. The IOC worries about player welfare, especially with the intense tournament format at the Games. While protective gear has improved, concussion protocols and injury monitoring remain key talking points.
Fans often wonder if the Olympic committee will ever bring back the 15‑a‑side version. The answer depends on whether the sport can prove broad global reach, manage match length, and address safety head‑on. Some countries are lobbying for a combined showcase – a quick exhibition of the full game – but nothing’s set in stone yet.
If you’re curious about how rugby fits into the Olympic picture, the May 2023 post gives a clear, no‑fluff rundown. It explains the historical snub, the rise of sevens, and the practical challenges that keep the full game out of the spotlight.
Stay tuned for more deep dives into rugby gear, training tips, and future Olympic possibilities. The archive may have just one post this month, but the conversation keeps going. Got a question or a take on rugby’s Olympic future? Drop a comment and join the chat.
