Rugby Superstitions: How Fans and Players Try To Affect The Game

As is the case with many sports, rugby is full of interesting and sometimes strange superstitions. Whether it’s fans who are convinced that there are things they can do to tip the universe’s scales in their favour, or players who do particular rituals in order to maximise physical and mental performance. There are thousands of fans and players each performing unique traditions in order to make sure their favourite rugby team wins every game. 

This article will look through some of the most common superstitions and rituals that rugby fans follow religiously on match day or in the build-up to those crucial fixtures.

Lucky Charms

For rugby fans, lucky charms are often key to their game-day confidence. Many supporters have a particular jersey or top they insist on wearing for every match, believing it carries the team’s winning energy. These jerseys might don their favourite player’s name, or be an anniversary addition of a memorable match, or it simply could be one worn in the past during a big victory. Alongside jerseys, matching socks, scarves, and hats become part of the ritual. Wearing the exact same combination is thought to keep the good luck flowing throughout the game and future fixtures.

It’s not just fans who get involved with lucky charms. Rugby players themselves sometimes wear small trinkets tucked discreetly inside their kit: a lucky coin, a wristband, or even a piece of string from a family member.

Avoiding Jinxes

One of the most common superstitions among rugby fans is the careful avoidance of “jinxing” their team. During a match, many fans steer clear of talking about the current score, a player’s outstanding performance, or the possibility of a win, fearing that voicing these thoughts aloud might somehow bring bad luck. This silent hope is rooted in the belief that drawing attention to positive moments too early can tempt fate to intervene.

Some fans even go a step further by avoiding certain phrases or celebrations until the final whistle. For example, calling a try before it’s scored or predicting a victory too confidently is often seen as risky. Instead, fans might whisper their hopes quietly or save their cheers for moments they feel “safe” to celebrate.

Pre-Match Rituals

Both rugby players and fans take pre-match rituals seriously, believing that these habits can influence the outcome on the pitch. For players, even the smallest routine can become sacred. A classic example is putting on socks in a particular order; some players insist on the right sock before the left, believing it sets the tone for their performance. It’s a small act, but one loaded with personal meaning.

Meal choices before a game are another key ritual. Many players stick to tried-and-tested foods that fuel their energy without upsetting their stomachs. For instance, South African hook Victor Matfield enjoys eating quite a lot of sweets the night before a game. Now, whether this is a genuine superstition or a way to bypass the nutrition experts, we will never know, but it certainly hasn’t negatively impacted his performances.

Fans also have their own rituals, like heading to the same pub before kickoff to soak up the atmosphere or grabbing the same seat in the stadium that they believe brings good luck.

The Haka

The haka is one of rugby’s most iconic and powerful traditions, famously performed by New Zealand’s All Blacks before matches. Originating from Māori culture, the haka has deep spiritual and historical significance. While the All Blacks’ version, Ka Mate, is the most recognised, there are several haka variations, each with its own meaning and purpose. For fans, the haka is a breathtaking spectacle that embodies the passion and intensity of rugby.

Player Specific Superstitions

Inside the dressing room, many rugby players follow personal superstitions to get into the right mindset before hitting the field. These rituals vary widely but often serve to calm nerves and build confidence.

Similar to the socks we mentioned earlier, some players always put on their boots in a certain order, right foot first or left foot first, believing it helps them find their rhythm during the game. Certain players have pre-match routines like listening to the same playlist or quietly repeating a mantra to focus their minds. There are those who refuse to change their kit or grooming habits during a winning streak, convinced that even the smallest change could break their luck.

Conclusion

Whether it’s fans wearing lucky scarves or players following strict dressing room routines, superstitions are a colourful and enduring part of rugby culture. While no charm or routine can guarantee a win, the emotional weight behind these superstitions is real. They’re part of what makes rugby such a passionate and unpredictable sport to follow. For viewers who take a deeper interest in the sport, following aspects such as rugby league betting may provide an alternative angle to consider; however, we don’t recommend relying on superstitions when it comes to real money wagers.