Red Bull, a brand that has long been at the forefront of changing the landscape of sports in Sri Lanka, is ready to unveil its latest venture into the arena of modern sports with Red Bull Offside.
It’s well-known, around the world that Red Bull and sports go hand in hand, curating events that are legendary and highly anticipated every year. The brand’s creativity has always translated onto the pitch, field, or area – regardless of the sport at hand. In Sri Lanka, local initiatives by Red Bull have made their mark, from Red Bull Campus Cricket (RBCC) to Red Bull Tuk It, Red Bull Levels, Red Bull Ride My Wave and recently, Red Bull Half Court, which was held at the historic Independence Square in Colombo.
Red Bull Offside is the latest in this string of initiatives, redefining Rugby. The game is played on a Rugby field, with a Rugby ball – but that’s where the similarity ends. From being allowed to pass or kick backwards or forwards to being awarded different points for scoring a try depending on where you score it, and even the option to score from a kick and a try in the same move, Red Bull Offside has rules that will make you go, “What the Ruck?!?”
>> Photos – Redbull Offside Press Conference
This game-breaking competition was announced at a media briefing cum team draw, which saw the participation of renowned media personnel, as well as enthusiastic representatives of the teams who drew slots to determine the groups of this groundbreaking competition, which will mark the introduction of a brand new variation of the oval-shaped ball game to the Rugby-loving public of the island.
The rules have been designed to level the playing field between professional athletes and amateurs above the age of 18. To put it succinctly, Red Bull Offside is a ‘tag’ tournament with games played over two halves, each consisting of six and a half minutes, with a 2-minute break in between halves.
Each team will comprise six players, supported by three substitutes. Contestants have the choice to sign up for teams that fall under the categories of Men’s, Women’s and Youth. The format features 28 teams in total.
Over the years, the brand behind the Can has become synonymous with energy for countless athletes around the globe. An innovative interpretation of the traditional oval ball game, Red Bull Offside will be no exception. The event promises to be a one-of-a-kind adventurous foray into a sport that is truly well-loved around the island.
Contestants and spectators can anticipate a day filled with excitement, refreshments and unparalleled fun as the players take to the field on the 2nd of September 2023 at the CR&FC Grounds. All the action of this exciting event will be brought to you live on Sri Lanka’s #1 Sports Hub – www.ThePapare.com
