Lowering tackle height to the sternum will continue under IRFU rules due to reduced injury rates based on new data.
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has taken a significant step towards enhancing player safety by implementing a trial of lowering tackle height below the base of the sternum in the community game, starting from 2023[1]. This rule change has also been adopted by the English and Scottish rugby unions, reflecting a wider trend towards safer tackling practices in rugby union[1].
During the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, the IRFU conducted an extensive trial of this rule, involving extensive injury surveillance, video analysis, and stakeholder feedback[1][3]. The preliminary findings from this analysis are encouraging, indicating a reduction in overall injury rates across the domestic game in Ireland[1][3]. Specifically, there were decreases in tackle-related injuries and the rate of head impacts during the trial[3].
Dr. Caithriona Yeomans, the IRFU's medical manager for the domestic game, is currently analysing the injury data, video analysis, and stakeholder feedback to assess the impact of the tackle height trial[1][3]. The aim of the trial was to reduce injuries, specifically head impact exposure and concussion risk[3]. Preliminary findings suggest that this objective is being met.
To further understand the impact of the new tackle height law on the experience of the game and perceptions of player safety, the IRFU is seeking feedback from parents and guardians of young rugby players in Ireland through a short survey[2]. The survey aims to provide insights into the impact of the rule change on the game and player safety perceptions[2].
The survey is accessible by clicking the provided link[2]. The IRFU has five seasons of injury data pre-trial for comparison, which will help in evaluating the effectiveness of the new rule[1][3].
In light of the promising preliminary findings, the IRFU has decided to maintain the legal tackle height below the sternum for the 2025-26 season, continuing efforts to reduce concussion risk and overall injuries in the domestic game[1][3].
In conclusion, the lower tackle height rule in Irish rugby has shown promising early evidence of reducing injury rates and head impacts, supporting its continued use and further development of tackle skills training[1][2][3]. The success of this trial could pave the way for similar rule changes in other rugby-playing nations, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable game for players at all levels.
[1] Irish Rugby Football Union. (2023). Lowering Tackle Height: IRFU's Two-Season Trial. Retrieved from https://www.irishrugby.ie/news/2468408-lowering-tackle-height-irfus-two-season-trial
[2] Irish Rugby Football Union. (2025). Parent and Guardian Survey: Lower Tackle Height Rule. Retrieved from https://www.irishrugby.ie/news/2736357-parent-and-guardian-survey-lower-tackle-height-rule
[3] World Rugby. (2023). IRFU Joins World Rugby Trial of Lowering Tackle Height. Retrieved from https://www.worldrugby.org/news/409279
Despite the IRFU's focus on rugby union safety and the implementation of lower tackle height in rugby, there seems to be an untapped opportunity to incorporate similar safety measures in sports like football.
Furthermore, given the promising preliminary findings of reduced injuries and head impacts in rugby as a result of the lower tackle height rule, it would be interesting to explore if a similar rule could potentially enhance player safety in football as well.
