The Rugby World Cup is known for its epic battles and unforgettable moments, but it also has some quirky and bizarre facts that often go unnoticed. From South Africa’s undefeated streak in World Cup finals to the tradition of using the same whistle to start every tournament, here are five of the strangest Rugby World Cup facts that add an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming 2023 tournament.
1. South Africa’s Unbeatable Record
South Africa has never lost a World Cup final. They have emerged victorious in the 1995, 2007, and 2019 finals, solidifying their reputation as a dominant force in rugby. As the 2023 Rugby World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on South Africa to see if they can maintain their undefeated streak and add another title to their impressive legacy.
2. The Same Whistle Since 1905
Every Rugby World Cup starts with the same whistle. This tradition dates back to 1905 when Welsh referee Gil Evans used the whistle in a game between England and New Zealand. The same whistle has been used for every tournament since, symbolizing the history and continuity of the sport.
3. The Rugby World Cup Anthem
The Rugby World Cup has its own official anthem called ‘World in Union.’ This iconic anthem, performed by New Zealand soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, has been a part of the tournament’s opening ceremonies since 1991. The melody is derived from Gustav Holst’s ‘Jupiter, Bringer of Jollity,’ also known as ‘I Vow To Thee My Country.’
4. The Controversial Food Poisoning Incident
In 1995, prior to the Rugby World Cup final, a significant number of the New Zealand team suffered from food poisoning. This led to speculations of foul play and sabotage, casting a shadow over the match. The South African team, who won the final, vehemently denied these accusations, accusing the All Blacks of being sore losers.
5. New Zealand’s 24-Year Drought
Despite being a rugby powerhouse, New Zealand went through a 24-year gap without winning the Rugby World Cup. Their drought ended in 2011 when they hosted the tournament and emerged as champions. They continued their success in 2015 by successfully defending their title.
These quirky facts add an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the Rugby World Cup. As the 2023 tournament approaches, fans can look forward to witnessing more epic battles and unforgettable moments on the field.