After a period of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, international rugby touring is back with real momentum, and that includes clubs and teams from the United States heading across the Atlantic to the UK once again.
Before the pandemic, trans-Atlantic touring was a little known but cherished tradition in the rugby community. Clubs of all levels would travel for a mix of competitive fixtures, social matches, cultural exchange, and lasting camaraderie. But travel restrictions in 2020–2021 brought this vibrant part of the rugby calendar to a near halt.
Now, as restrictions are a distant memory, North American clubs are rediscovering the value of touring the home of rugby, both on and off the pitch.
Touring Traditions Reignite
Across 2024–2026, a clear pattern has emerged of US sides planning and completing tours in the UK:
- The USA Military Rugby Team revived a long-standing tradition by touring England in November 2025, playing the British Army Rugby Union and honouring shared military heritage, something that had been paused due to COVID-related disruptions.
- Rugby tour partnerships are being strengthened on the organisational side too. USA Rugby has renewed and expanded its partnership with ourselves, sports tour operator Venatour, enabling clubs and supporters to plan travelling tours and matches across the UK and Europe.
Clubs and Community Tours on the Rise
The renewed interest isn’t just at the elite or representative level:
- We are excited to be operating the Pittsburgh Forge Rugby Club’s exciting tour of England and Scotland in March 2026, giving players, alumni, and friends a chance to compete, connect with local clubs, and soak up the touring experience that is such a vital part of rugby culture.
These tours not only strengthen relationships between rugby communities on both sides of the Atlantic but also provide invaluable development opportunities for players, coaches, and supporters.
What Touring Brings Back
The return to touring means:
Competitive matches against UK clubs – testing skills and styles in new environments
Cultural exchange – sharing social traditions, club hospitality and rugby lore
Team-building experiences – bonding off the pitch over shared meals, travel and exploration
Exposure to different playing styles – helping clubs evolve tactically and technically
📅 Looking Ahead
With international travel logistics more stable than they’ve been since 2019, and with partnerships and tour structures being revitalised, we’re seeing a steady rise in US-UK rugby tours at multiple levels. Whether it’s representative teams, club sides like Pittsburgh Forge, or supporter groups, the touring culture that defines rugby’s global fabric is making a welcome comeback.
Interested in working together?
Whether you’re planning your club’s first post-pandemic tour or simply reminiscing about past experiences, now is an exciting time to reconnect with international rugby touring, the friendships forged along the way are as valuable as the matches themselves.