Sport
Global Survey Identifies Enormous Support For An International Hybrid Rugby Competition
The survey, conducted by Melbourne -based consultancy Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment, was undertaken to understand consumer interest in a competition that sees the world's best players, from both rugby union and rugby league, pitted against one another.
It appears code-crossers, such as Wendall Sailor , Mat Rogers, and Sonny Bill Williams , have whetted the appetite for the intriguing possibility of a hybrid game of rugby.
Commenting on the report, Duncan MacWhirter , Twenty3's Research & Insights Director, said "Results of the survey indicate there is significant support for an International Hybrid Rugby competition, with an overwhelming 98% of fans from both union and league voting in favour of the concept."
Report highlights:
"It appears that both rugby union and league fans are very pragmatic when it comes to the future of their respective sports," said Mr. MacWhirter.
"Although obviously they would like to see their codes continue in their purest form, there's a clear pessimism out there concerning the long-term viability as separate sports if change isn't made."
It is important to note that Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment is not advocating the abolition of either code as a stand-alone sport. Mr. MacWhirter pointed out that "the research was conducted to understand if people are satisfied with the current state of their respective code, and to further explore the sustainability of a Hybrid Rugby competition if run in addition to the two existing codes."
Significantly, interest in a Hybrid Rugby competition was highest among the under 25 age group, with 77% of 15-18 year olds, and 72% of 18-24 year olds having interest in the concept. "This concept has clear support from the youth market. This is particularly important as it provides anyone that might be considering launching a Hybrid Rugby competition, a very clear understanding of the potential support for such an initiative moving forward," commented Mr. MacWhirter.
Significant U.K. and Irish findings:
About the survey
The online survey, conducted by Melbourne -based consultancy Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment in July, sampled 1,481 people across five markets ( Australia , New Zealand , United Kingdom , Ireland and France ) consisting of an equal mix of passionate rugby union and rugby league fans, and sports fans who didn't follow either code passionately.
About Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment
Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment is a strategic consultancy specialising in the business of sport and entertainment. Headquartered in Melbourne and independently owned, Twenty3 partners with clients across various industries to identify and maximise opportunities, and overcome business-critical challenges.
Enquiries
Duncan MacWhirter
Research & Insights Director
Twenty3 Sport + Entertainment
T: +61-3-9864-2305
M: +61-430-367-122
E: duncan.macwhirter@twenty3group.com.au