World Rugby Limits Player Matches to 30 per Year to Combat Burnout

World Rugby has introduced new player load guidelines to protect elite rugby players worldwide by limiting them to 30 full matches per season and mandating rest periods, including a minimum of five consecutive weeks off during the off-season and 12 weeks of non-contact time annually. These rules serve as a global minimum standard, particularly where local agreements are absent, and were a condition for approving the 2026 Nations Championship, emphasizing player welfare. In related news, Australia's most capped rugby player, James Slipper, announced his retirement following the upcoming Bledisloe Cup Test against New Zealand. Slipper, who has played 150 Test matches, becoming only the third player in history to do so, is also the most capped prop in rugby history and has been a key figure for the Wallabies since his debut in 2010. Celebrated for his durability and leadership, he has participated in four Rugby World Cups and two British & Irish Lions series, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike. Slipper plans to retire to focus on his family and to allow younger players to develop ahead of the 2027 World Cup.