About .rugby domain
.rugby is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) that was delegated to the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority root zone following ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry operator is Minds + Machines Group Limited, operating on behalf of the applicant IRB Strategic Developments Limited, which is affiliated with the sport's international governing body. It was launched in the mid-2010s after a community objection process resolved a contention set in favor of this applicant. The TLD is structured as a restricted gTLD intended to serve a specific community.
Who can register .rugby domain
Registration for .rugby domain names is restricted to entities and individuals affiliated with the global rugby community. Eligible registrants typically include national rugby unions, professional clubs, amateur teams, sanctioned events, and official partners of the sport. The registry likely requires verification of this affiliation during the registration process. This restriction is designed to ensure the namespace is used by and for the benefit of the sport's stakeholders.
How to register .rugby domain
- First, search for your desired .rugby domain name at an accredited registrar to check its availability, noting that many descriptive names may be reserved or considered premium.
- If available, review the registrar's pricing, which may include a higher cost for premium names, and select any add-ons like WHOIS privacy if offered by the registry.
- Proceed to checkout, where you will need to provide accurate contact information and agree to the registry's eligibility terms.
- After purchase, you must complete any required verification of your rugby community affiliation and then configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .rugby domain
The .rugby extension is commonly used by organizations and entities directly connected to the sport of rugby. National governing bodies, professional leagues like Super Rugby or the Premiership, and local clubs use it for their official websites to clearly signal their affiliation. Event organizers for tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup or Six Nations may also use it for promotional sites. Businesses that are official partners, equipment manufacturers, and media outlets focused on rugby also choose this TLD to establish authenticity and connect with a targeted audience of fans and participants.
Tips for registering .rugby domain
- The registry operates a sunrise period for trademark owners and likely a landrush phase for other eligible registrants before general availability.
- As a community-based gTLD, registrants must comply with eligibility requirements and may be subject to periodic checks to maintain their registration.
- WHOIS privacy services may be available but could be contingent on the registrant type and local privacy regulations.
- The registry likely has specific dispute resolution policies beyond the standard UDRP to address community-based objections.
Frequently asked questions about .rugby domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .rugby domain?
As of today, .rugby domains start from $41.98/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $80.54/yr across 7 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .rugby domains?
NameBeta tracks 7 registrars that support .rugby domain registration, with the cheapest option at $41.98/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .rugby domain?
The registry for .rugby domains is World Rugby Strategic Developments, administered by World Rugby Strategic Developments Limited.
Who can register a .rugby domain?
Registration is limited to verified members of the rugby community. This includes national federations, clubs, players, coaches, event organizers, and official commercial partners. During the application process, you will need to demonstrate your legitimate connection to the sport, which may involve providing documentation such as membership IDs or partnership agreements. Individuals without a formal affiliation are generally not eligible to register a .rugby domain.
Can I transfer a .rugby domain between registrars?
Transferring a .rugby domain to a new registrar follows the standard EPP transfer process, provided the domain is unlocked and you have the correct authorization code. However, the new registrar must also be accredited to sell this restricted TLD. It's important to ensure your domain's eligibility status and contact information are up-to-date before initiating a transfer, as the registry may re-verify affiliation upon a change of registrar.
What happens if my eligibility to hold a .rugby domain lapses?
The registry has the right to verify a registrant's ongoing eligibility. If you can no longer demonstrate a valid affiliation with the rugby community, the registry may suspend or cancel your domain registration. It is crucial to keep your registration details current and notify the registry of any changes in your status. Review the registry's eligibility policy for specific procedures and potential grace periods for compliance.
Are there special protections for trademarks within .rugby?
Yes, trademark owners benefited from a Sunrise period prior to general availability, allowing them to register corresponding domain names early. The registry also likely implements the Trademark Claims service, which notifies trademark holders of potentially infringing registrations. For disputes, the standard UDRP applies, but the community-based nature of the TLD may provide additional grounds for objection based on community harm.
Can I register a .rugby domain for a fan site or unofficial blog?
This depends on the registry's specific eligibility criteria. While the TLD is intended for the rugby community, policies may vary on whether unaffiliated fan sites or independent media are considered eligible. You should consult the official registry policy or contact an accredited registrar for clarification. In many restricted gTLDs, such uses are not permitted unless the registrant has an official sanction or partnership.
