5 Countries Where Football Isn't the Most Popular Sport

Saturday, 20 June 2026 at 00:22

bySteven Smith

With the FIFA World Cup dominating headlines this summer, it can be easy to assume football sits at the top of the sporting pyramid everywhere on the planet.

But for rugby fans, there are several countries where the oval ball still reigns supreme.

From the Pacific Islands to the Caucasus Mountains, rugby remains the number one sport in a handful of nations, even while the world's biggest football tournament captures global attention.

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5. Georgia

Often referred to as rugby's sleeping giant, Georgia has embraced the sport in a way few emerging nations have. The Lelos regularly sell out stadiums, have become a fixture at Rugby World Cups and continue to push for greater opportunities against Tier One opposition.

While football remains popular, rugby is widely viewed as the country's national sport.

4. Wales

This one will spark debate.

Football has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years thanks to major tournament appearances, but rugby remains woven into the fabric of Welsh life. The Six Nations still captures the nation's imagination in a way few sporting events can.

When people think of Welsh sport, rugby is usually the first thing that comes to mind.

3. Tonga

A nation of just over 100,000 people that continues to produce world-class rugby talent.

From Jonah Lomu to current internationals across the globe, rugby is a source of immense national pride. Football simply doesn't come close to matching its popularity.

2. Samoa

Like Tonga, Samoa punches well above its weight on the rugby field.

The Manu Samoa jersey carries huge significance and rugby stars are household names throughout the islands. Football struggles to compete with rugby's cultural importance.

1. New Zealand

There was only ever going to be one winner.

The All Blacks are more than a sports team; they are a national institution. While football has grown and the All Whites have enjoyed moments of success, rugby remains the undisputed king of New Zealand sport.

The black jersey is recognised worldwide and rugby's influence stretches into every corner of the country.

Other Countries Where Football Isn't Number One

Rugby isn't the only sport keeping football off the top spot.

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka – Cricket

In South Asia, cricket dominates to an extraordinary degree. International matches attract hundreds of millions of viewers and the sport's biggest stars are among the most famous people on the planet.

Canada – Ice Hockey

Despite football's growth, hockey remains Canada's national obsession. The NHL continues to command huge audiences and produce some of the country's biggest sporting heroes.