Ever wondered why Italy shows up in the Six Nations every year? Rugby has been carving out a spot in Italian sport for more than a century, and the excitement is only growing. Whether you live in Milan, Rome, or a sleepy town in Tuscany, there’s a chance you can catch a match, join a club, or even try the game yourself.
The first Italian rugby clubs appeared in the early 1900s, mostly in the north where British expats introduced the sport. Those early teams played on dusty fields, but they sparked a passion that survived two World Wars. By the 1970s a national league started to take shape, and in 1995 Italy earned a spot in the Five Nations, turning it into the Six Nations we know today.
Today the domestic competition is called Serie A (formerly Top10). Clubs like Benetton Rugby Treviso, Zebre Parma, and Rugby Calvisano dominate the scene, producing players for the national side, the Azzurri. The league runs from September to May, with a mix of home‑grown talent and a few overseas imports.
If you’re looking to catch live action, the easiest route is streaming. RAI and TV8 broadcast Italy’s Six Nations games for free in Italy, and they often stream Serie A matches on their websites. For international fans, platforms like NBC Sports (US) or ITV Hub (UK) carry the Six Nations, while club games can be found on YouTube channels run by the clubs themselves.
Want to try playing? Most cities have community clubs that welcome beginners. A quick Google search for "rugby club near me" plus your town will pull up a contact email or a Facebook page. Many clubs run a weekly training session for newcomers—no experience needed, just a pair of trainers and the desire to get moving.
Schools are also getting into the game. The Italian Rugby Federation runs a youth program called "Rugby per tutti" that introduces kids to the basics in a safe environment. If you have kids, ask their school if they’re part of the program; it’s a great way to build skills and community.
For fans who love the atmosphere, match days in Italy are a mix of traditional rugby chants and local flair. Expect pizza stalls, espresso stands, and a sea of red caps for Benetton Treviso fans. The stadiums are generally smaller than football arenas, which means you’re closer to the action and can hear the players’ calls.
Even if you can’t make it to a game, the Italian Rugby Federation’s website offers highlights, player interviews, and a calendar of upcoming fixtures. Signing up for their newsletter keeps you in the loop on ticket sales, community events, and merchandise drops.
Bottom line: rugby in Italy is a growing, friendly sport with plenty of ways to watch, follow, or play. From historic clubs in the north to emerging talent in the south, the game is thriving and ready for new fans. So grab a slice of focaccia, fire up the stream, or lace up some trainers—your Italian rugby adventure starts now.
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.