World Rugby has announced that the highly anticipated 23rd edition of the annual World Rugby Awards will take place at the iconic Opéra Garnier in Paris on Sunday, 29 October. This grand event follows the thrilling Rugby World Cup 2023 final at Stade de France and promises to be a glittering affair, uniting the global rugby community.
Renowned French sports broadcaster Clémentine Sarlat and former England international Ugo Monye will host the star-studded ceremony, which will be broadcasted worldwide on RugbyPass TV. Fans can also enjoy an exclusive red-carpet show featuring international rugby legends and special guests.
This prestigious evening will serve as a fitting conclusion to Rugby’s 200th birthday celebrations, marking a year of remarkable achievements on and off the field. The awards ceremony will recognize outstanding contributions in various categories, including the coveted World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year, World Rugby Coach of the Year, and World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year, among others.
The inaugural WXV competition, taking place from 13 October to 4 November, will also be honored with separate celebrations, acknowledging exceptional performances in women’s rugby.
The anticipation builds as nominees for these prestigious awards will be revealed on Thursday, 26 October. Additionally, the ceremony will witness the induction of five new members into the esteemed World Rugby Hall of Fame.
Sir Bill Beaumont, Chairman of World Rugby, expressed his excitement, stating, “The World Rugby Awards 2023 will be the occasion to celebrate an extraordinary 12 months on and off the field, which have truly showcased the timeless values and unifying power of our sport. Our theme has been ‘togetherness,’ and this ceremony will offer another opportunity to bring the global rugby family together and celebrate those who are continuing to drive the sport forward in a new century. The Awards will be the cherry on top of our 200th birthday cake!”
As the rugby world eagerly awaits this grand event, the World Rugby Awards 2023 promises to be a night of glamour, honor, and celebration, capturing the spirit of rugby’s enduring legacy.
