What Do Italians Call Rugby? Meaning, Terms & Culture Explained
When exploring what do Italians call rugby, the Italian name for the sport of rugby union and rugby league. Also known as rugby, it reflects both the game’s global roots and local language twists. In Italy the word stays almost identical to the English term, but the surrounding jargon takes on a distinctly Italian flavor.
Italian speakers borrowed the English word directly during the sport’s early adoption in the 1920s. The word entered Italian newspapers unchanged, because there was no existing native term that captured the same idea. This borrowing mirrors how many sports words travel across borders – think "football" becoming "football" in many languages.
Beyond the headline name, Italians use a small set of specific Italian rugby terminology, phrases that differentiate formats and equipment. For example, "rugby a 15" refers to the traditional fifteen‑a‑side game, while "rugby a 7" denotes the faster, seven‑player version. The ball itself is called "palla ovale" (oval ball), and a try is often shortened to "meta" in casual conversation.
Fans also love rugby slang, colorful nicknames that pop up in chants and locker rooms. You’ll hear "il pallone" (the ball) used affectionately, and "l'arbitro" (the referee) sometimes mocked as "il poliziotto" when decisions feel harsh. These slang terms keep the atmosphere lively and help new supporters feel part of the community.
The way Italians refer to the sport is shaped by its rugby rules, the official laws that dictate scoring and play. Since a try is worth five points, commentators often say "cinque punti" instead of "try" when describing a score. Understanding the rulebook makes it easier to follow why a "meta" is celebrated and how a "penalty kick" fits into the game plan.
Italian rugby culture, the network of clubs, fans and events across the country has grown steadily. Clubs in cities like Milan, Rome and Padua host weekly training, and national tournaments draw crowds who chant in both Italian and English. The British Airways Sports Club, for instance, runs friendly matches that bring together expatriates and locals, showcasing the sport’s inclusive vibe.
When you compare Italy to other languages, the pattern is clear: most nations keep the English word "rugby" but add local descriptors. In French you hear "le rugby", in German "Rugby", and in Spanish "rugby" as well. Italy’s approach is no different – the core term stays the same, while the surrounding vocabulary adapts to Italian speech patterns.
The Federazione Italiana Rugby (FIR) governs the sport’s growth, setting standards for youth programs and elite competition. Their official communications always use the terms mentioned above, reinforcing the language that fans hear on TV and in stadiums.
If you want to sound like a local, start with simple phrases: "Gioco a rugby a 15" (I play 15‑a‑side rugby), "Vogliamo vincere la meta" (We want to win the try), or "Passa la palla ovale" (Pass the oval ball). These sentences blend the borrowed name with authentic Italian structure.
Italian media also reflects the sport’s terminology. Channels broadcast matches with commentary that swaps "try" for "meta" and "scrum" for "misura". Reading match reports will expose you to the same slang and rule‑based language you’ll hear on the field.
Below you’ll find a curated collection of posts that dive deeper into rugby slang, extra‑time rules, the best rugby schools, and more. Each article expands on the terms and concepts introduced here, giving you practical insights whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fan.
Ready to explore the full range of content? Scroll down to discover detailed guides, fun facts, and useful tips that will help you master the Italian side of rugby and join the conversation with confidence.
