Germany is actually the oldest rugby nation in continental Europe, with the game played there since the 1890s, according to readers of The Guardian. However, several historical and cultural factors have prevented rugby from achieving the same popularity as in neighbouring France and Italy.
The Impact of World War II
World War II decimated Germany's player base, with most of the national team killed. The subsequent division of Germany and post-war reconstruction projects overwhelmed governing bodies, and rugby never regained its pre-war momentum. Before the war, Germany provided serious opposition for France, even beating them in 1938, but the conflict destroyed that progress.
Competition from Other Sports
Football and handball dominate Germany's sporting landscape. Handball, in particular, occupies a similar niche to rugby with its physicality and teamwork, drawing potential athletes away. Germany's strong football culture, rooted in working-class industrialisation, further marginalises rugby. As one reader noted, "The simple answer is that football (and also handball) are incredibly popular in Germany and swamp out other sports."
Lack of Integration into Schools and Communities
Unlike in the UK, France, or New Zealand, rugby was never fully integrated into Germany's school system or community clubs. Generations of players in rugby nations were introduced through schools and local clubs, but in Germany, this pathway is largely absent. A reader explained: "In many of those nations, generations of players were introduced to rugby through schools, local clubs and family traditions, helping the sport become part of the national culture."
Regional Variations and Small Pockets of Success
Rugby thrives in specific regions, particularly Heidelberg, which has five rugby teams and is considered a rugby city. Munich and Berlin also have growing scenes. However, outside these hubs, clubs struggle for participation. One reader who moved to Germany to play rugby noted: "We started training with 20 players; by Christmas this was down to four." The German Rugby Union's point system, designed to limit foreign players and promote homegrown talent, has hindered small clubs that rely on expatriates.
Current State of German Rugby
Germany has about 125 active clubs and more than 12,000 active players, organised into two national leagues and regional leagues. The men's national team is ranked 35th in the world. In the 2026 Men's Rugby European Championship, Germany finished eighth out of eight teams. Despite this, interest is growing: German TV now broadcasts international matches, and players like Anton Segner have made debuts for the All Blacks. However, Germany has never qualified for a Rugby World Cup.
Potential for Growth
Several readers believe Germany has huge potential as a rugby nation due to its strong sporting culture, large population, and competitive mindset. If participation grows through schools and clubs, Germany could become a significant force in European rugby, alongside emerging nations like Portugal and Georgia. One reader optimistically noted: "There is indeed a rugby culture in Germany. It is just not yet at the same level as in France or England."
