Democracy in action: European Parliament rugby team inspires on and off the field
We are the rugby team of the European Parliament (EPXV) - we are an inclusive and vibrant community that brings together Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), European Parliament (EP) staff, and individuals associated with European Union (EU) institutions and organisations involved in EU Affairs.Our goal is twofold: to promote and nurture the practice of rugby within the European Institutions, EU bodies and agencies, while also raising awareness of the EP and the EU among national parliamentary rugby communities.
Our team was founded by visionary MEPs including Eric Andrieu, Anne-Sophie Pelletier, Mohammed Chahim, Pascal Durand, Radan Kanev, Irène Tolleret, Petar Vitanov, Christian Allard, and Derek Vaughan, who shared a passion for both rugby and the values it represents. We are honoured to have the endorsement of European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, who serves as our esteemed patron.
Engaging both on and off the field, we actively participate in parliamentary rugby tournaments such as the famous 6 Nations and the World Cup, play matches with local teams, and organise friendly fundraising gala matches. Off the field, we strive to bring together rugby enthusiasts for discussions on the future, trends, and sustainability of the sport we all love. These discussions align with the EU values of diversity, inclusivity, and solidarity, and are held annually during our "State of the Rugby" conference.
Rugby, with its core values of integrity, respect, discipline, and teamwork, embodies the spirit of European unity, diversity, and inclusivity, reflecting the values that underpin the European Union. As members of the EPXV, we not only play the sport we love but also uphold the values and principles that shape the European Union.
Whether you're a seasoned rugby player or someone who is passionate about the European Parliament and the EU, we invite you to join our community. Let's celebrate unity, respect, and sportsmanship through the exciting world of rugby!
JOIN OUR
RUGBY CLUB
Are you part of the European Institutions or involved in European affairs, looking for an exciting sporting opportunity?
Click the link below and access our team application form for detailed information on how to join our club.
BE PART OF HISTORY
It didn't take much more than learning that there has never been a sports team wearing the colours of the European Union to spur us on.
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Having been invited to participate in the prestigious Parliamentary Rugby World Cup, we gathered a group of passionate Members of the European Parliament, individuals from various institutions and set out to assemble a formidable team that could dominate the field with unwavering defence, powerful scrums, and relentless attacks.
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After our inaugural General Assembly on June 30, 2022, we established our association (ASBL) on November 1, 2022. This association serves as the financial backbone for our activities, ensuring that we can continue to thrive.
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Membership is open to current and former members of the European institutions, as well as collaborators from other European bodies. We also extend our warm invitation to advisors within the European bubble who share our love for the game.
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Our circle of supporters knows no boundaries, and we wholeheartedly invite you to be a part of it. Join our rugby club and contribute to a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Together, let's make history!
