Latest News
World Rugby and unions confirm men’s July test schedule
A strong revised programme of men’s test matches is set to take place in July after all unions and World Rugby agreed a revised schedule within the existing window
Twenty-five of the top 30 ranked unions to play tests in the July window; World champions South Africa and hosts Japan play first tests since Rugby World Cup 2019; The UK and Ireland set to host a number of nations, while New Zealand becomes Pacific hub; Samoa v Tonga play-off to deliver first qualifier for RWC 2023 in Oceania 1; Rugby World Cup 2023 qualifiers also to be played in Europe, Africa and South America.
A strong revised programme of men’s test matches is set to take place in July after all unions and World Rugby agreed a revised schedule within the existing window. The revisions have been made recognising an ongoing and complex global COVID-19 picture while aiming to limit further impact.
The British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa headlines a busy July programme that will see 25 of the top 30 ranked unions in action with several hosting or being hosted for the first time since the pandemic began, including world champions South Africa and Rugby World Cup 2019 hosts Japan.
With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to cause disruption, the underpinning principle for the schedule was the fixtures agreed in San Francisco in 2017. Where it was not possible or practical to honour that schedule, the hosting rights were reversed with key arrangements met. Where this contingency has not been possible for COVID-19 reasons, World Rugby has facilitated discussions to confirm an alternative schedule for teams consisting of a minimum of two matches for unions who sought replacement fixtures.
This means that Argentina, Japan, USA and Canada will now travel to the UK and Ireland, New Zealand will host tests against Fiji, and Georgia travel to South Africa. The Samoa versus Tonga Rugby World Cup 2023 qualifier will also be hosted over two legs in New Zealand, creating a Pacific hub in the country across the July window. RWC 2023 qualifiers will also continue in Europe and get underway in Africa and South America.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “This has taken a monumental effort from all concerned. While there is light at the end of the tunnel in respect to COVID-19 in many nations, the challenges continue to be present, dynamic and impactful and therefore I would like to thank the unions, their respective governments, broadcast and commercial partners and players for their flexibility and full commitment to the process.
“Fans around the world can now look forward to an exciting bumper schedule of men’s test matches involving at least 25 teams, which will be a welcome sight for everyone. The road to Rugby World Cup 2023 also continues with key qualifiers for Samoa and Tonga and, of course, we are anticipating a fascinating British and Irish Lions series.”
World Rugby Vice-Chairman Bernard Laporte added: “Fans from all over the world will rejoice with this window of international rugby. I am delighted that match ups between northern and southern hemisphere teams can finally take place, this will act as a prelude to the exciting Rugby World Cup that we are all looking forward to in 2023.”
World Rugby and unions will continue to monitor the dynamic COVID-19 situation closely and respond if necessary, while any revisions to the November international programme will be confirmed in due course. World Rugby will also maintain its high performance support for emerging nations ahead of the July tests.”
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “Confirmation of the programme of July tests is the culmination of a considerable amount of detailed consultation and planning across the respective unions. It is also a reflection of the strong collaboration across the game that characterises our drive to strengthen engagement with all stakeholders to deliver a more aligned, meaningful and effective men’s international calendar beyond Rugby World Cup 2023.”
World Rugby and unions will continue to monitor the dynamic COVID-19 situation closely and respond if necessary, while any revisions to the November International programme will be confirmed in due course. World Rugby will also maintain its high performance support for emerging nations ahead of the July tests.
World Rugby continues to lead and facilitate focused and productive discussions with all stakeholders regarding the establishment of a globally integrated international calendar following Rugby World Cup 2023. International Rugby Players and the respective national leagues are central contributors within the dedicated working groups. Through these discussions, the sport is united in the mission to optimise the calendar for players, the international and club game.
Additionally, following the announcement of increased high performance support funding for RWC 2021 qualified and qualifier tests, World Rugby continues to be in discussion with unions regarding confirmation of a women’s test programme that will boost preparation for next year’s tournament.
eSports
TEAM VITALITY UNVEILS A SPECIAL EDITION JERSEY AND NEW CAMPAIGN FOR PERFECT WORLD SHANGHAI MAJOR 2024
- Leading global esports organization Team Vitality heads to China for the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024, fueled by the ambition to reclaim their place at the top as the world’s best CS2 team.
- The team will proudly debut the club’s Shanghai Major Limited Edition White Fan Jersey from the Qualification Stage (RMR) onward. Designed in collaboration with Paris-based contemporary artist Nairone, this special edition jersey pays tribute to Counter-Strike and Team Vitality’s dedicated Chinese fanbase.
- For the occasion, Team Vitality is proud to present a new campaign titled “The Year of Vitality”.
 |
Global esports leader Team Vitality proudly announces its participation in the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024. As one of the most competitive teams in the international esports circuit, Team Vitality is set to make a powerful impact in Shanghai in what promises to be a thrilling tournament.
With anticipation building for this pivotal event in a country full of dedicated Counter-Strike fans, the club will be unveiling a new campaign on its Chinese social media accounts named “The Year of Vitality” This tribute to Chinese culture also underscores the team’s determination to secure a back-to-back victory, solidifying its global dominance.
ALL EYES ON THE TROPHY
Team Vitality’s CS2 roster has consistently delivered strong performances over the past two years, capped by their recent win at Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Cologne 2024. Having claimed the World Champion title at the BLAST Premier World Finals in 2023 and secured an iconic victory at the BLAST.TV Paris Major, the team has firmly established itself as one of the most dominant forces in competitive CS2. After a conclusive 3-0 qualification at the RMR in Shanghai, Team Vitality is set to reinforce its status on the world stage.
Team Vitality’s dedication to competitive excellence since entering the scene in 2018 has been instrumental in shaping the modern Counter-Strike era. With legends like ZywOo, crowned HLTV’s best player in 2019, 2020, and 2023, and apEx, a seasoned pro with over a decade in the game, the team has set new industry standards in skill, dedication, and leadership. Building on this momentum, Team Vitality is poised to leave a lasting legacy in esports and proudly represent France in Shanghai.
“We are thrilled to compete at the Shanghai Major and showcase the team’s hard work against the best teams globally,” says Fabien ‘Neo’ Devide, Chairman and Co-founder of Team Vitality. “Growing our global presence and supporting both players and our worldwide community remains a top priority. We’re especially excited for zywOo to deliver a stellar performance in front of our Chinese fans. I am incredibly proud of the team and can’t wait to see them on the big stage with our fans in China!”
GEARED UP FOR VICTORY WITH SHANGHAI EDITION OF THE ALTERNATE JERSEY
Team Vitality players will debut a special edition of their newly released Alternate Jersey on the stage, created exclusively for the Shanghai Major. This limited edition features a prominent “V” on the back, with design elements that pay homage to Counter-Strike, Shanghai, and the wider Chinese fanbase. The club released the exclusive jersey in a dedicated video that includes Chinese references, graphics and design.
 |
Crafted in collaboration with Paris-based contemporary artist Nairone, known for his striking black-and-white contrast style, the jersey blends modern streetwear aesthetics with esports flair, making it a standout choice for both fans and players. Team Vitality’s PERFECT video showcases how the 2024 Alternate Jersey can be styled, featuring star players and brand ambassadors, underscoring its unique place in both the fashion and esports worlds.
Available for purchase only online, this special version of the alternate jersey is limited to 150 pieces and costs 89,99€.
 |
TEAM VITALITY UNVEILS ITS NEW CAMPAIGN “THE YEAR OF VITALITY”
Team Vitality is excited to launch “The Year of Vitality,” a campaign celebrating Chinese culture and dedicated to Counter-Strike fans across China. This initiative reflects the team’s relentless pursuit of back-to-back victories on the world stage.
As China hosts this year’s Major, Team Vitality has chosen the dragon—a powerful symbol of ambition and determination—as the emblem of its campaign, representing the team’s commitment to overcoming challenges and dominating the competition. Each campaign visual draws inspiration from Chinese iconography, bringing the Counter-Strike team into this vibrant, culturally rich world.
In a tribute to Chinese tradition, the campaign combines gold and red to signify not only the country’s national colors but also the passion, energy, and unyielding drive to win. The design aims to honor Chinese fans’ enthusiasm and capture their hearts as Team Vitality battles to bring home another title.
Join us online to get behind-the-scenes content, exclusive updates, and the chance to celebrate each milestone with the team as they strive to secure their place at the top!
|
|
 |
- More information:
- Team Vitality website
- PR Contact:
- SwipeRight agency – [email protected]
- Team Vitality – [email protected]
Saroca Reimagines Leadership Development for the Gaming Industry
Saroca, a leader in professional development for the gaming industry, is proud to announce its Transformational Leadership Program, launching February 2025. Building on the success of the 2024 LeadHERship Program—a pioneering initiative for women in gaming—the new program expands its reach with two distinct cohorts: one exclusively for women and another open to all genders.
The Legacy of LeadHERship
The 2024 LeadHERship Program achieved an exceptional Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 90, with participants citing transformative growth. With participants like Clemence Dujardin citing it as a “game-changer”. Confidence in leadership abilities rose by 46%, resilience increased by 27%, and imposter syndrome diminished by 39%.
Participants praised the program’s focus on emotional resilience, feedback mastery, executive presence and communication all in a supportive community.
Leadership Development: A Game-Changer for Gaming
In a rapidly evolving and diversifying industry, strong leadership is essential. Saroca’s programs go beyond skill-building to foster resilience, trust, and inclusivity—key traits for thriving in the global gaming market.
“We believe leadership is not about hierarchy—it’s about transformation,” said Emily Leeb, CEO of Saroca. “The Transformational Leadership Program reflects our commitment to cultivating leaders who will shape the future of gaming.”
Transformational Leadership Program Highlights
The program builds on the proven curriculum of its predecessor, featuring:
- Two Cohorts: A women-only cohort and a new all-gender cohort to enrich perspectives.
- Eight Modules: Covering topics such as emotional intelligence, self-advocacy, and radical candor.
- Community and Growth Tracking: Strengthening connections and measuring individual progress.
Registration Now Open
The Transformational Leadership Program begins in February 2025, with limited spots available. Scholarships are also offered to ensure accessibility. For more information, visit Saroca’s website or contact [email protected].
About Saroca
Saroca is a leader in leadership development for the gaming industry, committed to empowering professionals through inclusive, high-impact programs that drive personal and professional growth.
Play’n GO, the world’s leading casino entertainment provider, has today announced a partnership with Austrian state lottery operator Win2Day.
This partnership sees legendary titles from the Swedish-founded gaming giant, such as Reactoonz, Rise of Olympus, and Rich Wilde and the Tome of Madness live on Win2Day’s platform for players to enjoy.
As of November 2024, Play’n GO offers a portfolio of over 350 premium titles in over 30 jurisdictions worldwide.
Tove Aldefors, Head of Regional Sales Central and Western Europe at Play’n GO, said “It’s exciting to launch our games with the Austrian state lottery, and Win2Day are the perfect partner for our brand. They share our beliefs about a regulated, sustainable, player entertainment-led industry. We’re looking forward to many years of success working together.”
Georg Wawer, Managing Director win2day, added “We are the only licensed operator in Austria. Therefore our objective is to provide all major igaming operators on our platform. Play’n GO is one of the international powerhouses and therefore we are delighted to be able to offer their content on our platform. We view Play’n GO as a competent and responsible partner for win2day and we’re confident this partnership will prove fruitful.”
TEAM VITALITY UNVEILS A SPECIAL EDITION JERSEY AND NEW CAMPAIGN FOR PERFECT WORLD SHANGHAI MAJOR 2024
Saroca Unveils the Transformational Leadership Program for 2025
Play’n GO announces partnership with Austrian state lottery operator Win2Day
Week 47/2024 slot games releases
WEC24: PUBG MOBILE Tournament Concludes with Outstanding Success
EGT Digital is shortlisted in 5 categories of BEGE Awards 2024
EGT is a finalist in several categories of BEGE Awards 2024
EGT’s latest innovations to shine at the 15th edition of BEGE Expo
Tekkorp Launches Strategic Initiative To Capitalize On African Market
TRUMO LAUNCHES INSTANT OPEN BANKING PAYMENTS FOR FINNISH IGAMING REFORMS
Genome launches SEPA instant payments, adding another valuable feature for iGaming companies
NODWIN Gaming partners with Japanese gaming company KONAMI for ‘eFootball Diwali Showdown’
ALLIANCE PARTNERS TABCORP AND 1/ST CONTENT COMPLETE DEAL WITH THE JOCKEY CLUB OF TURKIYE TO DELIVER TURKISH RACING TO AUSTRALIA VIA SKY RACING
BOS on Sweden’s signing of the Macolin Convention: Welcome, but unreasonable to only include state gambling companies in the work against match-fixing
NSW Govt Appoints New Board Members to ILGA
ICONIC21 makes Romania debut with Princess Casino
-
Africa7 days agoSouth Africa: Tribunal Grants Lottoland Interim Relief – Orders Google to Grant Lottoland Access to its Advertising Platform
-
Latest News4 days ago
Make every pixel personal: Opera GX facelift lets you match your browser to your setup down to the smallest detail
-
Latest News4 days ago
Casino Management System Market to Reach USD 29.09 Billion by 2032 | Enhanced Security and Operational Efficiency Drive Growth | Research by S&S Insider
-
Latest News4 days ago
Fast Track Celebrates Third Year as a Great Place to Work Certified™ Tech Company
-
Latest News5 days ago
IBIA Upgrades Technology Platform to Strengthen Global Betting Integrity Efforts
-
Latest News5 days ago
Crypto Sportsbook, Sportsbet.io’s player wins huge $3.2m jackpot from $5 spin
-
Latest News4 days ago
ACR POKER ADDS BLITZ BONUS BOOST TO NOVEMBER CALENDAR AS $20 MILLION GTD WINTER OSS ENTERS FINAL DAYS
-
Industry News7 days ago
FDJ Announces its First Bond Issue
