The history of rugby union in Italy dates all the way back to 1911. However, the national team didn’t play their first competitive game until 1929, when they lost 0-9 against Spain. Five years later, Italy became a founding member of FIRA (now known as Rugby Europe).
Following the end of World War II, rugby rose to prominence in Italy. As a result, the Italy national rugby union team improved throughout the 1970s and 80s. During this period, several Italian stars emerged and the team began to face high-class opponents like South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
Towards the turn of the millennium, Italy’s rugby team began to perform well in the Rugby World Cup and they regularly beat opposition in the Rugby Europe Championship. When the side began to defeat teams in the Five Nations Championship, there was a clamour for them to join an expanded competition. Subsequently, Italy’s Six Nations debut occurred in 2000.
Italy Rugby Players
Throughout history, the Italy national rugby union team has been blessed with talented players. Some of the finest examples include Sergio Parisse, Alessandro Troncon and Massimo Mascioletti.
Today, the majority of the Italy rugby squad is based in the PRO14, representing Benetton and Zebre Parma. In addition, half a dozen players compete in the Top 14 and the English Premiership. Italy’s current squad includes talents like fly-half Tommaso Allan, flanker Sebastian Negri and prop Simone Ferrari.