On this day in 1954, the first ever Rugby World Cup started in Paris, France
Published by IRL
30 Oct 2020
It was on October 30th 1954 that the dream of a Rugby World Cup came to fruition. The tournament which was the brainchild of French Rugby League pioneer, Paul Barriere, kicked off in the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris. France, the hosts, welcomed New Zealand and recorded a victory by 22 - 13.
The tournament featured four nations, France, New Zealand, Australia and Great Britain and the trophy played for is the trophy played for today.