Viadana Rugby club exits Italian league

Giulio Arletti, president of the Lega Italiana Rugby (LIR), confirmed that Viadana Rugby has formally withdrawn from the league following his own resignation as league president in June. Arletti said the departure will not affect the Serie A Elite competition, stressing that the championship is governed by the Federazione Italiana Rugby (FIR) and not the LIR. He warned of logistical and image repercussions but dismissed fears of a major disruption, noting the rugby community is small and resilient.

With Viadana’s exit, the LIR is left with three clubs – Fiamme Oro, Valorugby and Mogliano – which will need to decide on new leadership ahead of the September assembly. The future governance of the league remains uncertain, but Arletti indicated readiness to support a possible reunification if conditions improve.