Businesses are warned that the 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) could result in employees being incredibly distracted.

Hugo Pienaar from Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr warns that productivity could be hurt due to the Rugby World Cup.

The 2019 RWC in Japan was the most-watched ruby event in history – with over 850 million global visitors, with the 2023 version expected to bring in a larger audience.

The competition began earlier this weekend, with the reigning champions, South Africa, kickstarting their defence against Scotland later today, 10 September.

However, with “Bok Fever” taking over the country, employees should prepare for distracted employees.

“The RWC is an exciting time, and while employers may not want to rain on the rugby parade, it is worth taking steps so that productivity and conduct does not wane during the tournament,” said Hugo Pienaar, Director in the Employment Law practice at commercial law firm Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH).

Pienaar added that most South African fixtures will take on Sundays, which could lead to a massive rise in absenteeism on Mondays.

“There’s no need for a specific ‘sporting event code’, but it would be prudent to remind employees of the code of conduct and other policies relating to absenteeism, leave, internet usage and performance ahead of the tournament,” he said.

He added that flexibility and employee well-being are incredibly important in the new world of work, and employers should not be scared to use the competition as a way to boost morale and overall flexibility.

“Simple flexibility tips could be implemented, such as not having meetings (where feasible) over key game times, showing highlights in a communal canteen area during lunch breaks etc.”

The competition will also be more accessible for South Africans after the SABC and MultiChoice reached an agreement for the former to broadcast 16 of the 48 games at the competition, with all of South Africa’s games broadcast on the state broadcaster.

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