Rugby is a sport known for its intensity, camaraderie, and dramatic twists that have captivated fans for generations. From astonishing upsets to acts of incredible sportsmanship, the game has provided moments that stand out in the hearts and minds of supporters around the world. Here, we take a look back at ten of the most memorable moments in rugby history—events that have defined the sport and left an indelible mark on the global rugby community.
1. Nelson Mandela and the 1995 Rugby World Cup
One of the most iconic moments in rugby history came in 1995 when South Africa hosted the Rugby World Cup. The event, just a year after the end of apartheid, became a symbol of hope and unity for the newly democratic nation. The image of Nelson Mandela, wearing a Springbok jersey, presenting the trophy to South African captain Francois Pienaar is one of the most powerful moments in the sport. The gesture represented unity and reconciliation, and the Springboks’ victory over New Zealand in the final became a story of a nation coming together through sport.
2. Japan’s Miracle of Brighton in 2015
Japan’s victory over South Africa in the 2015 Rugby World Cup is widely regarded as one of the biggest upsets in rugby history. Known as the “Miracle of Brighton,” the match saw Japan, a team considered an underdog, pull off a dramatic 34-32 victory over the two-time world champions. The moment that sealed the win came in the dying seconds, when Karne Hesketh crossed the try line, giving Japan their first-ever victory against a top-tier rugby nation. The upset stunned the world and solidified Japan’s status as a rising force in international rugby.
3. The Birth of the Haka: New Zealand’s Iconic Challenge
The All Blacks of New Zealand have become synonymous with the haka, a traditional Maori war dance performed before each match. The haka has been part of New Zealand rugby since 1888, but it truly captured the world’s attention in the professional era, becoming a symbol of intimidation and cultural pride. One particularly memorable haka came before the 2005 match against the British & Irish Lions, where the All Blacks performed the powerful “Kapa o Pango” haka for the first time. The intensity of the haka, combined with the All Blacks’ dominant performance, left an indelible mark on rugby history.
4. Jonny Wilkinson’s Drop Goal in 2003
The 2003 Rugby World Cup final between England and Australia provided one of the most dramatic finishes in the history of the sport. With the scores tied at 17-17 in extra time, Jonny Wilkinson stepped up to slot a drop goal with his weaker right foot, securing a 20-17 victory for England. It was the first time a northern hemisphere team had won the Rugby World Cup, and Wilkinson’s calm under pressure cemented his place as a legend of the game. The moment has become one of the most iconic in rugby history, replayed countless times by fans around the world.
5. The Barbarians’ Try of the Century in 1973
The 1973 match between the Barbarians and New Zealand is remembered for what many consider to be the “Try of the Century.” The try, scored by Gareth Edwards, was the result of a breathtaking series of offloads and broken-field running, showcasing the flair and creativity that rugby can produce at its best. The Barbarians’ emphasis on attacking rugby and the free-flowing nature of the game made this try one of the most celebrated in the sport’s history, symbolizing the essence of the Barbarians’ philosophy of entertaining the crowd.
6. France’s Comeback Against New Zealand in 1999
The 1999 Rugby World Cup semi-final between France and New Zealand saw one of the most incredible comebacks in the tournament’s history. Trailing by 14 points early in the second half, France staged an extraordinary fightback, scoring 33 unanswered points to secure a 43-31 victory. The French team, led by Christophe Lamaison and Christophe Dominici, played with flair, passion, and unpredictability, leaving the All Blacks stunned. This match is often regarded as one of the greatest World Cup games of all time, highlighting the unpredictability and drama that rugby can deliver.
7. Wales Defeats England in the 2013 Six Nations
The final match of the 2013 Six Nations between Wales and England was not only a decider for the championship but also a chance for England to achieve the Grand Slam. Wales, however, had other plans. In a dominant performance in Cardiff, Wales thrashed England 30-3, denying them the Grand Slam and securing the championship for themselves. The Welsh defense was relentless, and their attacking prowess was on full display as they dismantled their rivals. The victory was a proud moment for Welsh rugby and showcased the intense rivalries that make the Six Nations so special.
8. Ireland’s First Win Over New Zealand in 2016
For decades, Ireland had been unable to defeat the mighty All Blacks, but that changed in 2016 when they recorded their first-ever win over New Zealand. The match took place at Soldier Field in Chicago, and Ireland put on a masterclass in both attack and defense to win 40-29. The victory ended a 111-year wait and sparked emotional celebrations among Irish players and fans alike. It was a defining moment for Irish rugby, showcasing their progression as a team capable of competing with the very best in the world.
9. Siya Kolisi Lifts the Trophy in 2019
The 2019 Rugby World Cup saw South Africa claim their third title with a victory over England in the final. The moment that stood out, however, was when Siya Kolisi, South Africa’s first black captain, lifted the Webb Ellis Cup. Kolisi’s journey from growing up in poverty to leading his country to World Cup glory was an inspiration to millions, and his triumph symbolized the transformative power of sport. The Springboks’ victory brought hope and unity to a diverse nation, echoing the spirit of the 1995 World Cup but in a modern context.
10. Jonah Lomu’s Destruction of England in 1995
The 1995 Rugby World Cup introduced the world to a young Jonah Lomu, whose performance against England in the semi-final remains one of the most iconic displays of individual brilliance in rugby history. Lomu scored four tries, including a memorable one where he ran over Mike Catt, leaving the English defense helpless. Lomu’s combination of size, speed, and power revolutionized the game and made him rugby’s first true global superstar. His impact on the sport went far beyond his on-field exploits, as he inspired countless young players to pick up a rugby ball.
Celebrating Rugby’s Rich Legacy
These ten unforgettable moments showcase the rich legacy of rugby and the impact it has had on players, fans, and nations. Whether it’s the spirit of unity embodied by Nelson Mandela in 1995, the underdog triumphs like Japan’s Miracle of Brighton, or the sheer individual brilliance of players like Jonah Lomu and Jonny Wilkinson, rugby has delivered moments that resonate far beyond the sport itself. These moments remind us why we love rugby—for its unpredictability, its passion, and its ability to bring people together in celebration of the game.
