Monaco rugby club wins first William Webb Ellis Award
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
The Monaco rugby club received the inaugural William Webb Ellis Award in Menton on 14 October, created to honour contributors to the sport.
The rugby club of Monaco was presented with the first William Webb Ellis Award on Wednesday 14 October, in a ceremony held in Menton. The prize, created by Mauro and Liana Marabini, takes its name from the Englishman traditionally credited with inventing the sport by picking up the ball during a football match at Rugby School in 1823.
Before the presentation, organisers held a blessing at the grave attributed to Webb Ellis, adding a ceremonial weight to the occasion. The award is intended to become an annual fixture, recognising individuals who have contributed to the growth and reputation of rugby in the region.
For the Monaco club, long a fixture of amateur rugby on the Côte d'Azur, the honour marks a rare moment of recognition beyond the pitch. With the award now established as a yearly tradition, Menton and Monaco's rugby community will be watching to see who follows as the second recipient.