World Rugby joins other sporting bodies by suspending Russia and Belarus

World Rugby has joined a growing list of international sports governing bodies by placing immediate suspensions on Russia and Belarus.

The Guardian reports that unions from the respective countries have been barred from all international rugby and cross-border club rugby activities until further notice. Furthermore, the Rugby Union of Russia has been suspended from World Rugby membership.

In a statement, World Rugby reiterated its condemnation of “Russia’s aggressive invasion of Ukraine and the facilitation of this action by Belarus.

It says the global rugby family is united in standing in solidarity with everyone affected by these deeply disturbing events and joins the global community in calling for the restoration of peace.

The statement says World Rugby also remains in contact with colleagues at the Ukraine Rugby Federation and has pledged its full support to the rugby community in the country.

[Source: The Guardian]