Georgia's Rugby World Cup Journey

A Look Back at the Lelos' Performance on the Global Stage

The Georgia national rugby union team, known as the Lelos, has made significant strides on the international stage in recent years. The team has qualified for four consecutive Rugby World Cups, starting with the 2003 edition in Australia. In each of those tournaments, Georgia has shown improvement and competitiveness, earning respect from opponents and fans alike.

Early Years: Building a Foundation

Georgia's rugby history dates back to the late 19th century, but it was not until the early 2000s that the team began to make a mark on the international circuit. In 2001, Georgia won the European Nations Cup, earning promotion to the top division of European rugby. This success paved the way for the team's first Rugby World Cup appearance in 2003.

2003-2011: Gaining Experience and Respect

In its first three Rugby World Cups, Georgia faced a tough challenge against some of the world's top teams. The Lelos failed to win a match in 2003, 2007, or 2011. However, the team showed signs of progress, particularly in the 2011 tournament, where they narrowly lost to Scotland and Romania.