Tours
As Rugby League expands more countries are looking for visiting teams from the UK
Guidance on Planning Rugby League Tours
Touring provides a valuable opportunity to gain cultural experiences, develop lasting relationships, and support the growth of Rugby League in other countries. However, before committing to an overseas tour, careful planning and consideration are essential to ensure that the tour is purposeful, inclusive, and beneficial for all involved.
Considering Alternatives
Clubs are encouraged to explore more cost-effective options that may achieve similar objectives, such as domestic tours linked to major events. These can be especially appropriate for younger age groups experiencing their first tour.
Popular Touring Destinations
The following countries and overseas associations are known to welcome regular touring sides:
Czechia, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Serbia, Spain, Turkey and Wales.
Defining the Aim of the Tour
It is important to establish the primary aim of the tour:
- Player and team development
- Exposure to new playing environments
- Social and recreational experiences
Age Appropriateness and Inclusivity
Organisers should consider whether a tour is suitable for the age group involved. Particular attention must be given to ensuring that the tour is inclusive and accessible to all team members, regardless of financial circumstances. Planning for appropriate funding and support is essential.
Considerations for Host Teams
Given that Rugby League is at varying stages of development across different nations, care should be taken to ensure that any proposed fixtures are developmentally appropriate for the host teams. The tour should provide a positive experience and support the growth of the sport in the host country.
Timing and Approvals
Tours must be planned with attention to the most suitable timing and destination, aligned with the overall purpose of the tour.
All tours require prior approval from both the Rugby Football League (RFL) and the national federation of the host country.
Touring with Children or vulnerable adults
Tours involving children or vulnerable adults must comply with:
- RFL Safeguarding Policy View here
- Community Game Trips, Tours, and Overnight Stays Guidance View here
- Travelling Overseas Code of Conduct View Here
Applying for Permission
Fully complete the form above and send it to touring@rfl.uk.com
Clubs - Applying for permission to tour overseas
1. Complete the Outgoing Tour Application Form.
2. Obtain approval from the host Country's National Governing Body (NGB). Assistance can be sought from your host club, or contact the host country directly. Ensure a copy of this is included in the application.
3. When touring, Clubs must ensure they comply with the RFL Safeguarding Policy and Operational Rules specifically around qualifications (Operational Rule C3:2:4).
4. Clubs will be insured by the RFL’s Personal Accident and Public Liability policies for playing rugby league whilst on tour, providing RFL approval has been granted. Details of the cover can be found HERE. For the avoidance of doubt, if a Club is not compliant with the Policy and the Tour is not approved there will be no insurance cover provided by the RFL policies. Before a Club tour, it should provide all participants with confirmation of what cover is in place.
5. Please note that this insurance does not cover temporary injury, loss of earnings, medical and legal expenses or any other type of injury not mentioned in the policy. You will need to obtain additional travel insurance (which will cover you for any repatriation costs should a player become injured during the match and need specialist travel home). For this cover, we recommend Bartlett’s Insurance company which can be contacted by phone at 0113 258 5711 or by email at mail@bartlettgroup.com.
6. Once completed and signed, send your application to touring@rfl.co.uk
Travelling Overseas - Code of Conduct
When travelling abroad, players and officials represent Rugby League and their club. All individuals must uphold the Community Game Travelling Overseas Code of Conduct, including:
- Respect for hosts, staff, facilities, and fellow travellers.
- Appropriate behaviour at accommodations—maintaining cleanliness and respecting other guests.
- Moderate alcohol use only if permitted (and above the legal age).
- Strict prohibition of drugs (except pre-approved prescribed medications).
- Team identity and appropriate dress in public spaces.
- Adherence to RFL Codes of Conduct—any breaches may lead to Off-Field Misconduct charges.
- A full copy of the Travelling Overseas Code of Conduct can be found above.
Access the Travelling Overseas Code of Conduct above.
Safeguarding and Touring with Children
Tours involving children or adults at risk must comply with the Community Game Trips, Tours, and Overnight Stays Guidance, covering:
- Planning and communication with parents and players
- Supervision ratios and volunteer recruitment (including DBS checks)
- Travel, accommodation, and medical care arrangements
- Risk assessments and emergency procedures
Access the Community Game Trips, Tours, and Overnight Stays Guidance above.
Key safeguarding measures include:
- Designated Tour Welfare Officer (with valid safeguarding training and DBS).
- Clear supervision ratios:
- Ages 4–8: 1 adult per 6 children
- Ages 9–12: 1 adult per 8 children
- Ages 13–18: 1 adult per 10 children
- Parent engagement and clear communication of expectations.
- Emergency contact details, medical information, and safeguarding contacts must be readily available.
Clubs - Applying for permission to host an incoming tour
1. Download the RFL Tour Hosting Application Form
2. Fully complete this form. You will need to obtain approval from the NGB of your visiting team. The visiting team should assist you with providing this information. You will also need to speak to the relevant Competition to ensure that matches do not conflict with the playing calendar.
3. Once completed and signed, send your application to touring@rfl.co.uk
General Touring Reminders
- All participants are bound by RFL Operational Rules, Codes of Conduct, and Safeguarding Policies.
- Tours must be inclusive, age-appropriate, and accessible to all players, with clear financial planning to ensure no one is excluded due to cost.
- Tours should also contribute to developmental goals of the host nation—ensuring fixtures are suitable for both teams.
Contact Us
For more information, contact the RFL Community Game Competition Delivery Team by e-mail: touring@rfl.co.uk