The 20 Best Rugby Clubs in the World – Ranked from Lowest to Highest
Rugby is a game of power, skill, and tradition, and only a select few clubs dominate the sport year after year. Based on recent performances, trophies, and overall impact on the game, here’s the definitive ranking of the 20 best rugby clubs in the world today.
20. Exeter Chiefs (England) – Gallagher Premiership
Exeter Chiefs have been a remarkable success story in English rugby. Rising from the second division in 2010 to becoming Premiership and Champions Cup winners, the club is known for its disciplined approach and strong academy system.
19. Toulon (France) – Top 14
Once the home of rugby’s Galácticos, Toulon dominated the early 2010s by bringing in world-class talent such as Jonny Wilkinson and Bryan Habana. While they have struggled to replicate that success, they remain a powerhouse in French rugby.
18. Sale Sharks (England) – Gallagher Premiership
Sale Sharks are a fearsome team in English rugby, built on a foundation of physicality and defensive resilience. With a core of talented backrowers and a solid defensive system, they are serious contenders for future silverware.
17. Chiefs (New Zealand) – Super Rugby
The Hamilton-based franchise has consistently been one of the top teams in Super Rugby, winning titles in 2012 and 2013. Led by dynamic players like Damian McKenzie, the Chiefs remain one of the toughest teams to beat in New Zealand.
16. Stade Français (France) – Top 14
One of the most stylish and flamboyant clubs in world rugby, Stade Français combines a rich history with attacking flair. They were one of the dominant forces in French rugby in the early 2000s and continue to be a serious competitor in the Top 14.
15. DHL Stormers (South Africa) – URC
The Stormers are South Africa’s most consistent franchise in the United Rugby Championship, boasting a talented squad full of Springbok internationals. With a powerful forward pack and electric backline, they remain a top contender.
14. Harlequins (England) – Gallagher Premiership
Known for their fast-paced, attacking style, Harlequins provide some of the most exciting rugby in the Premiership. With stars like Marcus Smith and Danny Care leading the way, they are always a threat to win silverware.
13. Saracens (England) – Gallagher Premiership
One of the most dominant English teams of the past decade, Saracens have won multiple Premiership and European titles. Despite their salary cap scandal, they remain an elite club with world-class talent across the board.
12. Brumbies (Australia) – Super Rugby
The Brumbies are Australia’s most successful Super Rugby team, known for their intelligent, structured play. With legendary Wallaby Stephen Larkham as head coach, they continue to challenge New Zealand’s dominance in the competition.
11. Vodacom Bulls (South Africa) – URC
A historically dominant South African side, the Bulls have won multiple Super Rugby and URC titles. With a deep squad featuring numerous Springboks, they are always a serious contender in both local and international club competitions.
10. Bath Rugby (England) – Gallagher Premiership
After years of rebuilding, Bath have re-emerged as one of England’s top clubs. With a star-studded lineup including Finn Russell and a powerful forward pack, they are legitimate challengers for both domestic and European titles.
9. Hurricanes (New Zealand) – Super Rugby
Home to some of the most exciting attacking players in world rugby, the Hurricanes are a Super Rugby powerhouse. Despite losing captain Jordie Barrett to Leinster for part of the season, they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the competition.
8. Munster Rugby (Ireland) – URC
Munster is one of the most iconic clubs in Irish rugby, with a passionate fan base and a rich history of success. Despite recent playoff disappointments, they remain a force to be reckoned with in both the URC and Champions Cup.
7. La Rochelle (France) – Top 14
Back-to-back Champions Cup winners in 2022 and 2023, La Rochelle have firmly established themselves among the European elite. Under head coach Ronan O’Gara, they boast a strong squad that is built for both domestic and continental success.
6. Glasgow Warriors (Scotland) – URC
The reigning URC champions, Glasgow Warriors have built a formidable team under Franco Smith. With a blend of experienced internationals and exciting young talent, they are aiming for even greater success in 2025.
5. Blues (New Zealand) – Super Rugby
New Zealand’s most successful Super Rugby team outside the Crusaders, the Blues returned to glory by winning the 2024 Super Rugby title. With stars like Beauden Barrett returning, they are poised to continue their dominance.
4. Union Bordeaux Bègles (France) – Top 14
Bordeaux boasts one of the most exciting squads in French rugby, with an electric backline featuring stars like Damian Penaud and Matthieu Jalibert. Despite a crushing defeat in the 2024 Top 14 final, they remain among the best clubs in the world.
3. Northampton Saints (England) – Gallagher Premiership
The reigning Premiership champions, Northampton Saints have become one of England’s most feared teams. With a dynamic playing style and explosive backline, they are serious contenders in both domestic and European competitions.
2. Leinster Rugby (Ireland) – URC
Leinster is the most consistent team in European rugby, but their recent struggles in finals have left them frustrated. Despite that, they remain the team to beat in the URC and are always among the favorites for the Champions Cup.
1. Toulouse (France) – Top 14
The undisputed best club in world rugby, Toulouse are the reigning Top 14 champions and two-time Champions Cup winners in the past four seasons. Led by Antoine Dupont, they possess unmatched depth, skill, and tactical intelligence, making them the gold standard of club rugby.
