World Rugby announced on Wednesday the definitive cancellation of the men’s U-20 World Cup that was scheduled to be played in June and July in Italy but that “will not be played this year due to the current impact of the covid-19 pandemic.”
“The decision was made in consultation with the potential organizers and participating federations taking into account all aspects, from the financial impact to the consequences on the health of the players,” explained the highest body for world rugby in a statement.
The 2020 edition, which should have been held in Italy, has already been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. France won the last two editions, in 2018 and in 2019.
The U20 Six Nations Tournament, postponed due to the resurgence of the pandemic, will be played for three weeks in June and July in the period originally planned for the Youth World Cup.
“World Rugby is currently working with regions and federations to identify regional competitions that can be organized in a safe environment, thus reflecting the international federation’s ambition to develop high-level competition models for future rugby stars.” adds the statement.
