World Rugby announces major law change for autumn matches as teams raise issue

World Rugby has announced a major law change banning hip-drop tackles starting November 1, classifying them as dangerous play punishable by at least a penalty. The decision follows concerns raised by multiple nations and recommendations from an expert tackle height working group established after February's Shape of the Game meeting. Research confirmed that while rare, hip-drop tackles carry a high risk of serious injury.

World Rugby is amending Law 9.13 to explicitly prohibit the technique, in which a tackler drops their body weight onto a ball carrier's legs. Match officials are also issuing immediate guidelines to strictly penalize "knee-drop" tackles under current rules. World Rugby chair Brett Robinson emphasized that the swift actions demonstrate the organization's commitment to prioritizing player welfare.