What Is the Difference Between Rugby League and Rugby Union

Rugby League and Rugby Union are two distinct codes of rugby that share common roots yet have evolved into completely different sports. To someone new to the game they can look similar because both involve carrying the ball, tackling and scoring tries. Once you understand the structure, rules, tactics and rhythms of each code you realise how different they are. Fans of each code are often passionate about their version of the sport because the style of play, pace, physical demands and strategies vary significantly.

This guide explains the difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union in clear straightforward language. You will learn how each sport developed, how many players are on the pitch, how points are scored, how tackling works, how possession is managed, the role of the scrum, the differences in kicking, how the pace of each game feels and what to expect as a viewer. By the end you will understand exactly what separates the two codes and why both types of rugby have dedicated supporters.

Where Rugby League and Rugby Union Come From

Both codes began as one unified game. In the late 1800s rugby was governed by the Rugby Football Union in England. As the sport grew industrial towns in northern England pushed for players to be compensated for lost wages when selected for matches because working class players often missed paid work to travel. The governing bodies refused payment which led northern clubs to form their own organisation in 1895. That split produced Rugby League which favoured professionalism earlier while Rugby Union stayed amateur for many years.

From that point the sports developed separately. Both codes carried the same basic idea of carrying the ball forward and tackling but each code adjusted rules to create their own style. Over more than a century Rugby Union and Rugby League have become separate sports with different competitions, tactics and global strengths.

Number of Players and Basic Structure

One of the simplest differences is the number of players on the field. Rugby Union uses fifteen players per team while Rugby League uses thirteen. This changes team structure, spacing and tactical planning.

In Rugby Union the extra players create more rucks, mauls and set piece battles with more bodies contesting the ball. In Rugby League the removal of flankers opens the pitch and leads to a faster, more flowing game with more emphasis on running and tackle management.

The pitch size is similar in both codes which means each Rugby League player has more space to cover. This difference alone shapes the character of each game.

Tackling and Phases of Play

The biggest difference in gameplay comes from how each code handles the tackle and the contest for the ball.

Tackles in Rugby League

In Rugby League a tackle ends the phase of play immediately. After each tackle the tackled player stands up, plays the ball by rolling it back to a teammate and the game continues. There is no ruck as seen in Union. League has a six tackle rule. After six tackles the ball is handed to the opposition normally by kicking on the last tackle. This creates predictable attacking sets with teams planning their moves for each tackle count.

Tackles in Rugby Union

In Rugby Union the tackle does not end the contest. When a player is tackled both teams compete for the ball at the breakdown called a ruck. Players drive over the ball trying to secure or steal possession. This contest leads to slower, more strategic phases and uses significant forward power. The ball stays in play after multiple rucks until possession is lost, a penalty occurs or the ball goes out of play.

These differences define the speed and flow of each sport. League is quicker with fewer stoppages and clearer phases. Union is more complex with heavy contests for possession.

Scrums and Lineouts

Scrums and lineouts exist in both codes but operate very differently.

Scrums in Rugby League

A Rugby League scrum involves fewer players and has minimal contest for the ball. The team awarded the scrum almost always keeps possession. Scrums in League are mainly a way to restart play rather than a major tactical weapon. They happen far less frequently than in Union.

Scrums in Rugby Union

Scrums are central to Rugby Union and involve eight players per team pushing against each other. They are physically demanding and technically complex. A strong scrum can win penalties, field position and momentum. Scrummaging is one of the most recognisable parts of Union and contributes heavily to the sport’s forward based identity.

Lineouts

Rugby Union uses lineouts to restart play when the ball is kicked into touch. Players lift jumpers to contest possession. Lineouts are both strategic and skill based.

Rugby League does not use lineouts. Instead play restarts with a simple handover or scrum depending on the infringement.

Scoring Differences

The scoring systems in both codes reward tries but the value of each scoring method differs.

Rugby League scoring

• Try is worth four points
• Conversion adds two points
• Penalty goal is worth two points
• Drop goal is worth one point

League places slightly more emphasis on tries and flowing attacking play which means more movement and fewer stoppages.

Rugby Union scoring

• Try is worth five points
• Conversion adds two points
• Penalty goal is worth three points
• Drop goal is worth three points

Union’s higher penalty value means discipline is more important. Teams can win tight matches through accurate kicking and tactical pressure.

Pace and Style of Play

Watching both codes shows immediate differences in rhythm and tempo.

Rugby League pace

League is generally faster because the game stops less and the six tackle rule keeps play moving. Attacks are structured in sets with the aim of gaining territory before a final kick. There is more running, more short passing and more emphasis on athletic endurance. The field feels open with constant movement.

Rugby Union pace

Union has slower periods because rucks, mauls and scrums create more structured contests. Games often shift between tactical kicking, set piece battles and moments of open running. The pace changes more frequently which adds variety but reduces the constant flow seen in League.

Kicking Differences

Kicking plays different roles in each code.

Kicking in Rugby League

Teams use tactical kicking on later tackles to find territory or force errors. Kicking on the last tackle is almost guaranteed. Short attacking kicks are also common to create scoring chances.

Kicking in Rugby Union

Union uses kicking for field position, pressure and tactical control. High balls known as up and unders or bombs are used to challenge defenders. Penalty kicks play a huge role because of the high point value. Teams also use touch finders from penalties to gain metres before launching attacks from lineouts.

Set Pieces and Forward Play

Rugby Union places heavy importance on set pieces such as scrums and lineouts which makes forward packs vital to success. Forwards in Union require power, discipline and strong technical ability. They spend large parts of the match in physical contests.

Rugby League forwards still tackle and carry heavily but they operate more like powerful runners than set piece specialists. The game relies less on mauls and scrums which changes the type of athlete required.

Amount of Contact and Physical Demands

Both codes are physically demanding but the type of contact differs.

Rugby League contact

League often features repeated heavy tackles because each phase ends on the tackle. This demands strength, endurance and strong defensive organisation. Tacklers in League must retreat ten metres after each tackle which increases physical fatigue and requires excellent fitness.

Rugby Union contact

Union has a wider variety of contact situations. Tackles lead to rucks and mauls where multiple players contest possession. Scrums require powerful coordinated pushing. Physical demands are more varied and often more sustained rather than constant repeated bursts.

Competition Structures

Each code has its own set of major competitions.

Major Rugby League competitions include:

• Super League in the UK
• National Rugby League in Australia
• Challenge Cup
• State of Origin series in Australia
• Rugby League World Cup

Major Rugby Union competitions include:

• Six Nations Championship
• Rugby Championship (southern hemisphere)
• Premiership Rugby
• United Rugby Championship
• European Champions Cup
• Rugby World Cup

Union has broader global reach with more nations playing the sport at elite level. Rugby League remains particularly strong in northern England and Australia although it has loyal followings elsewhere.

Global Popularity

Rugby Union is played widely across Europe, Africa, the Pacific Islands, South America and parts of Asia. The Rugby World Cup attracts huge global audiences.

Rugby League has intense popularity in specific regions such as England’s north, Australia’s east coast and parts of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. The sport has attempted expansion but remains more geographically concentrated than Union.

What the Games Feel Like as a Viewer

Watching Rugby League feels fast, open and direct. Attackers run onto passes at pace and teams build pressure through successive tackles. Matches often involve sprinting battles, strong carries and quick defensive lines.

Watching Rugby Union feels more strategic. Matches combine bursts of running with long periods of structured play. Tactical kicking and set pieces matter greatly and scoring often comes from sustained pressure or clever playmaking.

Your preference depends on whether you enjoy speed and simplicity or strategy and contest.

Safety and Regulations

Both sports have made significant adjustments to protect players. Tackles above the shoulder are penalised. Head injury assessments are mandatory. Scrums in Union follow strict engagement rules to avoid collapse. Rugby League controls tackle height and penalises dangerous contact. Both codes use yellow and red cards to maintain player safety.

Cost and Accessibility

Both codes are accessible to watch on television or through streaming services. Ticket prices vary by competition and location. Grassroots clubs in both sports offer affordable participation for young players. Rugby Union generally receives higher global broadcasting revenue due to its wider reach although Rugby League has a fiercely loyal fanbase.

Alternatives or Similar Sports

Rugby Sevens is a fast paced Union variant with seven players per team and short matches. Touch rugby and tag rugby offer non contact versions played socially. Australian rules football shares elements of running, kicking and physicality but is a different sport entirely.

Practical Advice for Choosing Which Code to Follow

If you want fast attacking rugby with simple rules and non stop movement Rugby League is ideal. If you prefer tactical battles, set pieces and shifting momentum Rugby Union may suit you better. Many fans enjoy both codes once they understand the differences. Watching highlight packages from each code or attending a live match helps you experience their unique characteristics.

Final Thoughts

Rugby League and Rugby Union share a common origin but have grown into two distinct sports with different rules, pacing, scoring systems and tactical structures. League uses thirteen players and focuses on fast attacking sets with a six tackle rule. Union uses fifteen players and relies on scrums, lineouts, rucks and a more tactical style. Both codes demand athleticism, bravery and teamwork yet deliver very different viewing experiences.

Understanding the difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union helps you appreciate the strengths of each code and makes watching matches far more engaging. Whether you enjoy the speed and simplicity of League or the strategy and physical contest of Union both versions of rugby offer exciting, skilful and dramatic moments.