World Rugby Law 6 requires the referee to carry a whistle and keep time and score. Its match-officiating preparation guide lists a coin, watch, cards, pencil, scorecard and touch-judge flags among packing items. Choose gear by role and competition, because a referee and assistant referee do not carry the same kit.
Referee equipment should support the assigned role and the competition’s match procedures. Law 6 sets clear duties for the referee, while the match organizer or union can define additional kit for a particular appointment.
Separate the referee’s kit from the sideline official’s kit
| Role or task | Useful equipment | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Referee | Whistle, watch, coin and cards | Law 6 requires a whistle; check the competition’s card and toss procedure |
| Recording | Scorecard or notebook and pencil | Use the record method supplied or approved by the organizer |
| Assistant referee or touch judge | Flags and any required communication equipment | World Rugby describes flags for touch, touch-in-goal and kick-at-goal signals |
| Timekeeper, when appointed | Approved timing solution, with a stopwatch backup | Follow the match protocol for time-off signals and backup timing |
| Changing conditions | Suitable match clothing and weather layer | Check kit-color and uniform instructions for the competition |
The World Rugby Laws say the referee is appointed by the match organizer, keeps time and score, and must carry a whistle. World Rugby’s preparation materials list practical items such as a coin, watches, pencils, scorecards, cards and touch-judge flags. Treat that list as preparation guidance, then check the event’s own appointment notes for role-specific requirements.
For storing cards, a whistle and other compact match items, compare rugby kit bags and ball bags. The posts, pads and flags guide covers field-side flags and ground equipment, while the World Rugby equipment rules guide explains player clothing checks. Browse youth, coaching and referee gear.
Check event rules before choosing apparel or electronics
Do not assume the referee wears the same colors, uses the same timing tool or carries the same cards at every level. Confirm local appointment instructions, field access and communication requirements before ordering a uniform or electronic device. Keep essential match tools together in a small pouch or dedicated compartment so they can be checked before travel.
Sources
Common questions
What equipment must a rugby referee carry?
World Rugby Law 6 says the referee carries a whistle and keeps time and score. The competition may add local requirements for clothing, cards or record keeping.
Does every referee need touch judge flags?
Flags are used by assistant referees or touch judges, not necessarily by the referee in the middle. World Rugby's referee preparation list includes them as match-official kit.
Should a rugby referee carry a watch?
The referee keeps time under Law 6. World Rugby's preparation material includes a watch; a designated timekeeper may have a separate timing setup under the match plan.
What should an assistant referee pack?
Pack the items required by the appointment and competition, including the communication or signaling equipment the match organizer specifies. World Rugby notes that flags are used for assistant-referee signals.