There are twelve semi-professional Italian clubs that play in the Top12, four of which qualify to play in the European Rugby Challenge Cup Qualifying Competition to qualify to the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

On 25 July 1911 a Propaganda Committee was formed to promote the sport of rugby union in Italy.

In 1928 this body became the Federazione Italiana Rugby (FIR).

Italy bid to host the 2015 Rugby World Cup came close to winning but lost to England by just three votes.

[1] The FIR is responsible for fielding several men's national teams: The FIR is also responsible for fielding several women's national teams: