Rugby World Cup 2019 Trophy Tour

Webb Ellis Cup visits Sapporo during Rugby World Cup 2019 Trophy Tour

As the countdown continues until the start of Rugby World Cup 2019, the Webb Ellis Cup continued its tour of Japan, arriving in host city Sapporo, the northernmost host city for the tournament.

As the countdown continues until the start of Rugby World Cup 2019, the Webb Ellis Cup continued its tour of Japan, arriving in host city Sapporo, the northernmost host city for the tournament.

The trophy began its visit with an appearance on Sapporo TV’s Dosanko programme, accompanied by former Meiji University Director of Rugby, Masahiko Niwa, who shared some of the highlights the people of Sapporo could expect when Rugby World Cup 2019 comes to town later this year.

The trophy was pictured at the iconic Sapporo TV tower, which is one of the most recognised landmarks in Sapporo before heading down under the city, where the Webb Ellis Cup was on display as part of an event in the underground walkway. Thousands of fans visited the trophy, with many taking the opportunity to take photos and selfies and find out more about rugby and the tournament.

Many fans commented how excited they were to be a host for Rugby World Cup 2019, with people looking forward to welcoming Australia, England, Fiji and Tonga to the city and rugby to the iconic Sapporo Dome stadium.

The final activity in Sapporo was at Hokkaido Barbarians Rugby and Sports Club, in the Minami ward of Sapporo. Accompanied by Rugby World Cup 2019 mascots Ren-G, the trophy was given a very warm welcome from the players and teams from the local area.

Hundreds of young players took part in a rugby session at the club in the presence of rugby’s most coveted prize, and enjoyed hearing the history and stories behind the trophy before taking photos and having the chance to see the trophy up close. The trophy continues to inspire the next generation of players wherever it goes, with many of the children commenting how much they would like to play for Japan and even win the trophy in the future.

Next the Webb Ellis Cup travels to host city Kamaishi, in Iwate Prefecture, before returning to Tokyo for the 50 Days to go milestone.

Click here for more information on the Rugby World Cup 2019 Trophy Tour.