World Rugby and International Gay Rugby have signed an agreement committing to equality in the sport.

Known as one of the toughest and ‘manliest’ sports in the world, the organisations involved hope to inspire other sporting bodies.

They have vowed that any player, official or fan will never face discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity, and to ensure all homophobia is eliminated.

Both parties signed the agreement at World Rugby House on Dublin’s Pembroke Street this week.

World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Rugby is an inclusive sport which has at its heart character-building values of passion, integrity, solidarity, respect and discipline. The signing of this historic agreement underscores our commitment to those values and our strategic vision – a game for all, true to its values.”

International Gay Rugby Chairman Jeff Wilson said: “This is a momentous occasion for LGBT athletes, supporters, officials and administrators and the people who support them in the game of rugby.”

“World Rugby is a trail-blazer as a global governing body in committing to actively eliminate homophobia from any sport. We are committed to partnering with World Rugby to continue our work of making rugby the most inclusive and tolerant sport in the world,” he added.