Football and soccer (or football, if you insist) have legions of dedicated fans around the world, but few are exposed to the passion of rugby fanatics. Here are some tips if you ever find yourself watching a match in Sydney.
Quiet for the kick
Similar to when tennis players serve, the audience is expected to stay quiet when a kick is taking place, so don’t bring any noisemakers to distract the opposing team. In fact, it is customary to applaud the other team if they make a good play.
Respect the ref
A classic sight at games is to see the manager rush to the referee for a heated argument, but don’t expect to see any of that here. Even for audiences, booing a call is generally frowned upon.
Stay civil
Rugby fans love to tell you how hard their players are, eschewing any kind of padding except for a mouthpiece. As for the spectators, don’t expect any hooliganism here. American and English football crowds tend to be rowdy, but here in Sydney the fans are a little more reserved.
Find a pub
Some things never change, and the age old pairing of drinking and sports is universal. Sydney has hundreds of pubs packed with rugby fans, so you’re guaranteed a lively night. For a classic spot with a long rugby heritage, check out the Rugby Pub in Circular Quay.
Read This Next
Zorbing in New Zealand
Adventure
Aug 18, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Feb 10, 2026Why Mazatlán, Mexico, Is a Must-Visit Spring Destination
Looking for the perfect springtime vacation? Check out Mazatlán. In spring, the entire city prepares for the excitement of the third-largest Carnival celebration in the world, Mazatlán Carnival. The event, Feb. 27 to March 4, is a centuries-old tradition filling the streets with fun parades of colorful floats and vibrant dancers, live concerts, fireworks, street parties, large coronations, and more.
Sponsored Content
Your Cruise Adventure, Protected from Booking to Boarding
Wave season is here — the prime moment when travelers secure the year’s best cruise deals and start planning everything from warm‑water escapes to once‑in‑a‑lifetime, around‑the‑world cruising. Whether you’re dreaming of sun‑filled island stops, panoramic river sailings or a globe‑spanning expedition, wave season is the ideal time to turn those plans into reality.
Slideshow
Feb 10, 20266 Must-See Sites in Fort Worth, Texas
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are six must-see sites in Fort Worth, Texas.
Airline
Feb 10, 2026United Airlines Economy Passengers Can Now Pre-Order Meals
If you’re flying United economy, you can now pre-order meals ahead of your flight using either the airline’s website or app.
Sponsored Content
Taiwan: Whatever Your Pleasure
Taiwan’s wealth of offerings ensures travelers find destinations, activities and amenities to suit all interests.
Destinations / Europe
Feb 9, 2026Explore Northern Italy Like an Olympian with Lonely Planet Recommendations
With the Winter Games in full swing, Northern Italy has welcomed athletes and travelers to participate in and witness all sorts of events and excitement. Whether there now or planning a visit later in the yearLonely Planet compiled a list of the top cities to explore.
ShareThis