The International Rugby Board today announced that it will be launching its new weekly television programme next month.

Entitled ‘Total Rugby’ and running from February to the end of November, the first programme will coincide with the opening round of matches in the RBS Six Nations Championship on February 4th/5th.

In addition to coverage of the IRB’s own tournaments and events – Rugby World Cup, Under 19 and Under 21 World Championships and IRB/RWC Sevens – the programme will contain action, news, features and profiles from around the world.

Produced by TWI and sponsored by the international catering and support services organisation, Sodexho, Total Rugby will be distributed world wide.

Chris Rea, the IRB’s Head of Communications, whose broadcasting career has spanned more than 25 years, will oversee the project. ‘This is an exciting and important initiative’, he said. ‘Rugby on television is vital not only for the promotion of the game, but also for its development.

‘With the IRB’s contacts and Sodexho’s generous sponsorship, we will be seeking to make a significant impact in those territories where rugby is played and watched and, even more important, in new markets and in countries where there is presently little or no coverage of the game’.

IRB Chief Executive Mike Miller said, ‘The launch of Total Rugby is the cornerstone of a proactive IRB communications strategy for the game worldwide utilising traditional and new media platforms.’

‘Total Rugby will provide the game with a powerful, weekly promotional vehicle that will colourfully supplement the existing coverage of the game’s major tournaments and matches,’ added Mr Miller.

Further information:

Chris Rea +353 [0]87 249 8019

Greg Thomas +353 [0]86 819 6149