World Rugby has stepped up to support nations through the hardships caused by the coronavirus pandemic, announcing a NZ$166 million relief fund to assist unions.
The relief fund will be available for unions requiring immediate emergency funding, providing they meet the appropriate criteria. The fund has been designed to assist
as many unions as possible and for as long as possible while there is no rugby being played.
For Six Nations and Sanzaar unions, the financial package will involve a combination of advances and loans, while World Rugby is also committed to supporting emerging nations and regional associations where required.
"Global sport is facing a crisis never seen before and at this most challenging time we are taking unprecedented action as a sport united to support global rugby, its unions, competitions and players through the enormous challenge presented by the Covid-19 pandemic," World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said.
"The measures announced today will provide support and short-term relief in the form of a US$100 million relief fund, while we are making excellent progress towards calendar options that reflect and address a dynamic, complex and uncertain environment.
