World Rugby formalises sanctions for hip-drop and knee-drop tackles

World Rugby has confirmed two player-welfare interventions for dangerous low-body tackle techniques. A law application guideline on knee-drop tackles took effect on 5 October 2026, while hip-drop tackles will be written explicitly into Law 9.13 from 1 November.

The hip-drop definition covers a tackler who grasps a ball carrier from the side or behind, swings around or through the carrier and drops body weight onto the legs or lower limbs. World Rugby states that the action will be classed as dangerous play and sanctioned with at least a penalty.

The knee-drop guidance applies when a defender puts one or both knees on the ground before attempting the tackle. World Rugby links the action to existing Law 13.3c, which prevents a player on the ground from tackling, and to the foul-play provisions in Laws 9.11 and 9.13.

The governing body said its tackle working group reviewed international sevens and fifteens footage and commissioned research with Leeds Beckett University. The Executive Board approved the hip-drop amendment on 28 September after the technique was raised through the Shape of the Game process.

The official announcement, the two published law pages and an independent report agree on the separate implementation dates and minimum penalty consequence. The clarification is recorded as one governance development, not split into separate quota items.