The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is the national governing body for rugby union in England. Founded in 1871 and based at Twickenham Stadium, which it owns and operates, the RFU represents England in World Rugby and oversees the sport’s governance, development, and regulation nationwide.
The RFU manages the England men’s and women’s national teams and age‑grade programs, administers domestic competitions such as the RFU Championship, and supports grassroots clubs through coaching, match official education, player welfare, and safeguarding initiatives. It applies World Rugby Laws and domestic regulations, runs disciplinary processes, and collaborates with professional leagues, broadcasters, and other stakeholders. As a not‑for‑profit organization, the RFU reinvests surpluses to sustain and grow rugby across England.