The Webb Ellis Cup was the star attraction at a special event hosted by the European Parliament and New Zealand Mission to the European Union in Brussels on Monday.
With two months to go until Rugby World Cup 2011 kicks off in New Zealand, Rugby’s ultimate prize was presented to European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek by International Rugby Board Chairman Bernard Lapasset.
The event provided the opportunity to discuss matters of mutual sporting interest with President Buzek, European Commission officials and the Rugby Intergroup, a body comprising Members of the European Parliament (MEP) dedicated to supporting and promoting Rugby both in EU member states and in developing Rugby nations.
Lapasset said: “Like the European Union we have long recognised sport’s wider role in society, its ability to drive social change and bring people together. We share a common vision and commitment to grow Rugby throughout Europe and beyond and ensure that every man, woman and child has the ability to engage with and enjoy Rugby.â€
“We are proud as Rugby grows across every continent that the sport’s strong values of team work, integrity, discipline, respect and passion still make a real difference in modern society.”
Buzek said: “It is a great honour to welcome President Lapasset and the iconic Webb Ellis Cup to the European Parliament. Sport is central to European society and Rugby is very prominent, with its rich heritage, thriving participation numbers and strong values. The European Parliament is very supportive of a sport that continues to grow in popularity across all nations.â€
The event provided an opportunity to showcase Rugby World Cup 2011, the biggest sporting event of the year, which is set to attract over 85,000 travelling fans, including a large number of Europeans, to New Zealand.
Children from local Rugby clubs joined MEPs in having their photograph taken with the Webb Ellis Cup.
New Zealand charges d’affaires Paul Ash said: “New Zealand is proud to host Rugby World Cup 2011. Visitors from Europe and all around the world will be warmly welcomed by a stadium of four million hosts. New Zealand and Europe are connected by a strong shared heritage, including on the sports field. The Rugby World Cup is the perfect opportunity to showcase the best New Zealand and Rugby has to offer.â€
Rugby World Cup 2011 kicks off on September 9 when hosts New Zealand take on Tonga in Auckland in the first of 48 matches which will culminate in the Webb Ellis Cup being presented to the winning captain on October 23. Seven EU teams will participate.