Brazil Rugby Team: History, Growth, and What’s Next

If you think Brazil only lives for football, you’re missing a fast‑growing story on the field. The Brazil rugby team, often called the Brazilian Sevens or Brazil XV, has risen from a tiny club scene to competing on the world stage. In the past decade the squad started winning games, attracting sponsors, and filling stadiums. Below you’ll find the basics you need to know if you want to get into Brazil’s rugby scene.

How Rugby Got Started in Brazil

Rugby arrived in Brazil in the early 1900s with British expats and Argentine students. For years it stayed a niche sport played at private schools and a few universities. The turning point came in 2010 when the Brazilian Rugby Confederation (CBRu) launched a national development program. They built youth academies, set up regional leagues, and partnered with schools to add rugby to PE classes.

The biggest boost happened when Brazil qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics rugby‑sevens tournament. Hosting the games forced the country to invest in training facilities and elevate the sport’s profile. Suddenly kids in São Paulo and Rio were seeing their peers on TV doing tackles, and more families began signing up for local clubs.

What to Expect from the Brazil Rugby Team

Today the senior team competes in the South American Rugby Championship and the World Rugby Sevens Series. They’re not yet at the level of New Zealand or England, but they’re closing the gap. The squad relies on speed, agility, and a high‑energy playing style that reflects Brazil’s love for fast, flashy sport.

Key players to watch include wing Felipe S. Silva, whose break‑away runs regularly result in tries, and captain Lucas M. Duarte, a forward who mixes physicality with smart ball handling. Both have become faces of the sport, appearing in commercials and youth outreach programs.

If you want to catch a game, the best chances are the annual Brazilian Rugby Sevens Grand Prix in June and the South American Cup in August. Matches are streamed on local sports channels and often on free online platforms, so you don’t need a pricey subscription.

Beyond the senior team, Brazil’s under‑20 side is making waves in world tournaments. The youth program focuses on scholarship scholarships, fitness education, and community coaching. This pipeline is why the senior team is getting deeper talent each year.

Challenges remain, though. Funding is still lower than in football, and many players juggle day jobs with training. The sport also competes with other popular activities like volleyball and basketball for school budgets. However, the CBRu’s partnership with corporate sponsors like Santander and local gyms is helping fill the gap.

For newcomers, the easiest entry point is joining a local club. Cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Curitiba have beginner-friendly sessions on weekends. Most clubs welcome anyone over 16, and many provide gear rentals, so you don’t need to buy a full kit right away.

In short, the Brazil rugby team is a story of rapid growth, passionate fans, and a clear roadmap for the future. Whether you’re a casual viewer or want to try the sport yourself, there’s a place for you in Brazil’s rugby community. Keep an eye on the upcoming championships, and you’ll see why this team is becoming a must‑watch for sports lovers across the country.