IRB formally changes its name

London - The International Rugby Board, the global governing body for the 15-a-side code, formally changed its name to World Rugby on Tuesday at the conclusion of its two-day conference in London.

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Explaining the reason for the change, World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "Today's launch embodies our mission statement to grow the global rugby family beyond our traditional family and fan base and reflects the federation's evolution from rugby regulator to rugby inspirer."

What was the International Rugby Football Board was founded in 1886 by the Irish, Scottish and Welsh rugby unions before England joined in 1890, with the initial name change to the IRB coming in 1998.