If you’re scrolling through Linlithgow Rugby Club’s site and land on the Italy tag, you’re probably wondering why a Scottish club is talking about Italy. The short answer: Italian rugby is growing fast, and it gives our Reds a chance to learn, compare, and maybe even schedule a friendly match. Below we break down the basics of rugby in Italy, what makes the Italian side special, and how this ties into our own club.
Italy’s national team, known as the Azzurri, has been part of the Six Nations Championship since 2000. While they haven’t won the tournament, they’ve pulled off memorable upsets—remember the 2013 win over Ireland? Those moments show Italy’s potential and the grit of their players.
Domestically, the top league is called Top10 (formerly Eccellenza). Clubs like Benetton Rugby (Treviso) and Zebre Parma compete in the United Rugby Championship, playing against teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and South Africa. This exposure raises the level of Italian talent and brings a professional vibe to the sport at home.
Grassroots rugby is also spreading. Schools in Milan and Rome now run junior programs, and regional tournaments attract dozens of teams each year. If you ever visit Italy, you’ll see packed crowds at local derbies, especially in the north where rugby culture runs deep.
First off, the Azzurri’s style—big, strong forwards combined with quick, low‑budget backs—matches what we try to teach at Linlithgow. Watching Italian matches helps our coaches pick up new set‑piece ideas and defensive drills that we can adapt for our own squads.
Second, networking. Over the past few seasons we’ve exchanged visits with Benetton’s youth coaches. Those trips give our junior players a taste of professional training facilities and let Italian coaches see how Scottish clubs run community programmes.
Third, fan culture. Italian supporters are famous for their passionate chants and bright flags. Bringing a bit of that atmosphere to our home games can boost the crowd energy and make match days even more exciting for everyone.
Finally, future fixtures. With the Six Nations calendar set each February‑March, there’s always a window to arrange a friendly tour for either side. A Linlithgow‑Italy match would be a great way to showcase talent, raise funds, and celebrate the shared love of rugby.
So, whether you’re after the latest Azzurri results, want to compare playing styles, or are curious about possible joint events, the Italy tag is your shortcut. Keep checking back for updates on Italian rugby news, player spotlights, and any collaboration announcements from Linlithgow Rugby Club.
Got a question about Italy’s rugby scene or want to suggest a new partnership? Drop us a message in the comments or reach out on our social channels. Let’s keep the conversation going and bring a bit of Italian flair to Scottish pitches!
Rugby in Italy is really starting to gain traction. While it may not be as popular as football, it's certainly carving out a niche of its own. More and more Italians are getting involved, both as players and fans. Many are drawn to the camaraderie and physicality of the sport. So, while it's not yet mainstream, rugby's popularity in Italy is undeniably on the rise.