Capgemini has been named the official digital transformation partner of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), in a strategic move aimed at modernising the governing body’s technology infrastructure and enhancing digital engagement across all levels of the sport.
The collaboration reflects the RFU’s commitment to building a more connected and efficient rugby ecosystem, with technology playing an increasingly central role in how the sport is administered, experienced, and grown across England. By partnering with Capgemini, the RFU seeks to strengthen the digital foundations that support participation pathways, competition management, and fan interaction across grassroots and elite rugby.
Under the agreement, Capgemini will lead the development and optimisation of the RFU’s digital platforms used by players, coaches, match officials, volunteers, administrators, and supporters. The partnership will focus on improving accessibility, usability, and reliability of key digital systems, ensuring a more seamless experience for stakeholders across the rugby landscape.
Claudio Borges, Executive Director of Commercial and Marketing at the RFU, said, “We are delighted to welcome Capgemini on board as we work together on our Digital Transformation programme. Our partnership with Capgemini means we can accelerate digital transformation at all levels of the game. We want our sport to be accessible, engaging and innovative, and this partnership amplifies this. We aim to continually evolve, and, with the help of Capgemini, we will be able to do so effectively.”
Steven Webb, UK Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Capgemini, added, “We are incredibly proud to join forces with the RFU at such an exciting time for the sport, especially following the recent success of the Red Roses for England. By bringing together Capgemini’s deep expertise in AI-led digital transformation and the RFU’s ambition for the game, we will help elevate and enrich the rugby experience for players, volunteers and fans nationwide.”
The initiative aligns with the RFU’s long-term strategic framework, Plan 2030, which prioritises participation growth, stronger digital connectivity, and improved user experiences across the rugby community. Through modernised infrastructure and integrated digital services, the RFU aims to streamline processes such as player registration, competition administration, communication tools, and community engagement platforms.
Capgemini will also introduce structured innovation frameworks powered by data analytics and artificial intelligence, enabling the RFU to test, refine, and scale solutions that improve operational efficiency while enhancing the overall rugby experience. The technology-led approach is expected to support better decision-making through data insights, while creating more personalised and connected experiences for stakeholders across the sport.
The agreement further expands Capgemini’s presence in the global sports industry, particularly within rugby, where the company has developed a growing portfolio of partnerships focused on leveraging technology, data, and AI to improve performance insights, fan engagement, and organisational capabilities. Capgemini has also been involved in supporting digital initiatives linked to the development of rugby competitions in emerging markets, including its collaboration with Rugby India for the launch of the Rugby Premier League.
As sports organisations increasingly prioritise integrated digital ecosystems to manage participation data, optimise competition structures, and deliver more personalised fan experiences, partnerships such as this underline the evolving role of technology providers as long-term strategic enablers rather than traditional commercial sponsors.
The collaboration between the RFU and Capgemini highlights a broader shift across the global sports industry, where digital capability is becoming fundamental to governance, commercial growth, and the long-term sustainability of sport.
