Rugby in Brazil – What’s Happening and How You Can Join

If you think rugby is only a European thing, think again. Brazil’s rugby scene is buzzing with new teams, local leagues, and even national pride after the 2016 Olympics. Whether you’re a fan looking for a match or a newcomer wanting to try the sport, there’s a place for you in Brazil’s growing rugby community.

Why Rugby Is Gaining Momentum

First off, the sport got a serious boost when Rio hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics. The exposure sparked curiosity and drew a wave of kids and adults to local clubs. Governments in states like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro started funding youth programs, and schools now offer rugby as an optional sport.

Another driver is the success of the national team, the “Tupis.” Their performance in the South American Rugby Championship and occasional appearances in the Rugby World Cup qualifiers have made the sport feel more attainable. When a national team wins or even just competes on the world stage, kids start dreaming about wearing that jersey themselves.

Social media also plays a huge role. You’ll see Instagram reels of Brazilian players doing amazing tackles, and YouTubers breaking down the rules in Portuguese. That easy access to content makes learning the basics less intimidating.

Where to Play and Watch Rugby in Brazil

Want to watch a game? The top-tier competition is the Superliga Brasileira de Rugby. Matches are held in major cities like São Paulo, Rio, and Porto Alegre, and tickets are affordable—sometimes even free for students. For a more relaxed vibe, check out regional tournaments such as the Campeonato Carioca in Rio or the Paulista Rugby League in São Paulo. These events are perfect for seeing the sport up close and meeting players.

If you’re ready to lace up, look for clubs in your city. In São Paulo, clubs like SPAC Rugby and Cobras Rugby welcome beginners with training sessions twice a week. Rio’s top clubs include Fluminense Rugby and Rio de Janeiro Sharks, both offering beginner clinics on weekends. Most clubs have a Facebook group where you can ask about schedules, gear, and membership fees.

Don’t forget about the university scene. Universities such as USP and UFRJ run competitive teams and often recruit players with no prior experience. Joining a university team can give you structured training, access to better equipment, and a built‑in social circle.

Gear is simple: a good pair of rugby boots, a mouthguard, and a rugby shirt. You don’t need expensive pro gear at first—many clubs have loaner kits for newbies.

Finally, if you want to stay updated, follow the Brazilian Rugby Confederation’s official accounts. They post match schedules, player interviews, and tips on technique. Signing up for their newsletter gives you a monthly roundup of everything happening in the sport across Brazil.

Rugby in Brazil is more than a trend; it’s becoming a staple of the country’s sports culture. The mix of Olympic exposure, national team pride, and grassroots programs means there are plenty of ways to get involved, whether you’re watching from the stands or hitting the field yourself. So, next time you hear the word "rugby" in Brazil, know that a whole community is ready to welcome you.