A 20-Hour Rugby Marathon That United the World.

By Mark Philpott.

On October 25, 2025, I embarked on what I thought would be a grueling 24 hour livestream podcast for Inside Rugby with Mark to raise funds for United Rugby Fans (URF). What unfolded was a 20 hour celebration of rugby’s global family that left me inspired and humbled.

It began like preparing for a long-haul flight, daunting, with a rough plan but no certainty. Yet, from the first kickoff, fans from South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, and beyond turned it into an unforgettable journey. 

Together, we watched Japan v Australia game, then the NPC Final from New Zealand between Canterbury and Otago, and then four live URC matches, Lions v Ulster, Sharks v Scarlets, Benetton v Stormers, and Munster v Connacht. 

The live chat buzzed with energy as ex professional players, lifelong fans, and newcomers shared their love for rugby. Stories of unforgettable tries, childhood matches, and dreams for the sport’s future poured in, connecting us across continents.

Between games, we dove into URF’s mission: uniting 500 million rugby fans across 133 unions to address issues like refereeing inconsistencies, underinvestment in women’s rugby, and support for tier 2 nations. Fans shared bold ideas more transparent officiating, grassroots funding, and global fan chapters. These conversations weren’t just talk; they’re shaping URF’s roadmap.

What struck me most was the fans’ care. At the 20 hour mark, they insisted I stop, prioritizing my well-being over the planned 24 hours. 

That’s the rugby family fiercely passionate yet deeply supportive. This wasn’t about the $10,000 goal for urfans.org; it was about building a movement. 

We gained insights, momentum, and new leaders.

The livestream, hosted on  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@insiderugbymark, was a testament to rugby’s power to unite. URF is more than a platform; it’s a voice for fans who want fairness, inclusion, and growth in our sport. 

Join Us: Visit urfans.org to share your ideas, start a local chapter, or support our mission. 

Together, we’ll redefine rugby. 

#URFUnite