Rugby union in Monaco
| Rugby union in Monaco | |
|---|---|
| Country | Monaco |
| Governing body | FMR |
| National team(s) | Monaco |
| First played | 1996 |
| Registered players | 325 |
| Clubs | 2 |
Rugby union in Monaco is a minor, but growing sport. In October 2013, Monaco ranked 91st out of 100 national teams according to the International Rugby Board.[1]
The governing body of rugby union in Monaco is the Fédération Monégasque de Rugby (FMR).[2]
History
Rugby union has a long history in Monaco. The country is surrounded by the main rugby playing area of France on three sides, and coincidentally is not far from Menton, which is where William Webb Ellis, the supposed founder of the game is buried.
Despite this, Monegasque rugby has had serious problems. For example, they have been accused of having one of the worst teams in Europe.[3] They have had serious problems with a pitch, as AS Monaco will not allow them to use theirs, and the team doesn't have any native Monegasques on it. On the other hand, Albert II, Prince of Monaco is a great fan of the game.[4]
See also
References
- ^ International Rugby Board - World Rankings: Full world rankings
- ^ Fédération Monégasque de Rugby
- ^ "Monaco millions no help for rugby team". Television New Zealand. Reuters. January 27, 2009. Retrieved November 6, 2011.
- ^ Rugby Monaco