World Rugby faces coach backlash over new Nations Championship protocols

Coaches of the twelve nations competing in the Nations Championship have voiced strong opposition to World Rugby's newly introduced protocols governing interaction with match officials. The rules require that any pre‑match meeting with a referee be attended and approved by both coaches, and they limit post‑match feedback to a maximum of five video clips submitted through the Athlete Management System. Critics argue that joint meetings could force teams to reveal tactical details to opponents, compromising preparation.

World Rugby said it values the feedback and is willing to review the protocols, but it has asked for a period of implementation before any changes are made. South Africa’s head coach Rassie Erasmus raised the issue publicly before the team's clash with Wales on 18 July, echoing concerns shared by other coaches at a meeting held the previous Thursday.