[3] Rugby was first introduced into South America in the late 19th century by British immigrants, but this was mainly in Brazil and neighbouring Argentina.

[4] This was confirmed in many people's minds when Chile won the second place in the 1981 South American Championship in the absence of Argentina.

In the late 1980s, former French coach Jean-Pierre Juanchich became national administrator of the sport, lending it some extra credibility.

[6] During the 1980s, Chilean rugby participation increased by 400%, and whereas it was previously confined to the cities of Santiago and Valparaíso, it began to spread throughout the country.

Chile National Rugby Championship started in 1948, and its first winner was Prince of Wales Country Club.