Rugby union in Algeria

Rugby union in Algeria is a moderately popular sport. After many years of work, in 2015, Algeria finally created a federation enabling them to apply for member status of Rugby Africa (the administrative body for rugby union within Africa). Algeria has experienced success at the international level causing an increase in overall popularity.

History

Rugby union was introduced into Algeria by the French. Some Pied-Noirs (ethnic European Algerians) would go on to become significant rugby players, such as Maurice Boyau.

As with many minor rugby nations, rugby is centered on Oran, Guelma, Algiers, Annaba.

Like many North African countries, the historical connection with France is a mixed blessing. For a number of years, Algerian rugby players would leave to play there, which deprived Algerian rugby of any real competition.^[1][2] There are at least sixty Algerians playing in English and French rugby.^[2] Like many other Maghrebi nations, Algerian rugby tended to look to Europe for inspiration, rather than to the rest of Africa.

However, one exception might be Boumedienne Allam: Allam first played for France U-21 squad, winning the Six Nations Tournament of that category, in 2000. He was a member of the historical first game of Algeria national rugby union team, on 24 February 2007.

After independence, the first club created was Stade Oranais in Oran on 2007. Algerian federation was created on 2015 and the first championship started on 2018.

Clubs

Algeria has six rugby union clubs to date, and there are plans to set up a proper national club competition.^[2][3] They are currently trying to promote the game in universities and schools.^[2]

• Stade Oranais (Oran)
• Rugby Club d'Alger (Algiers)
• Mouloudia M'sila (M'sila)
• Rugby Club de Béjaïa (Bejaia)
• Rugby Turck (Aïn El Turk - Oran)
• Etoile de Biskra (Biskra)

For the 2017–18 season, these were the top teams:ES Biskra