9th most popular sport with around 390-410 million fans (France, England, New Zealand and South Africa mainly).

Rugby is widely played In France and has a strong tradition in the Basque, Occitan, and Catalan people areas along the border regions between Spain and France. The game is very popular in South Africa, having been introduced by English-speaking settlers in the 19th century. British colonists also brought the game with them to Australia and New Zealand, where the game is widely played. It has spread thence to much of Polynesia, having particularly strong followings in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga.