A rugby friendship stretching back 15 years between Brecon and an Italian club has been marked with a weekend of sport, culture and celebration.

Rugby Belluno, from northern Italy, arrived in Brecon on Thursday, April 24 for a three-day tour hosted by Brecon Rugby Club.

The visit began with a welcome evening for players and host families, held at Brecon Tandoori. The local restaurant, a longstanding supporter of Brecon RFC’s mini and junior section, also donated £500 towards the Belluno tour fund - following a successful curry night fundraiser in March.

The Italian guests enjoyed a packed itinerary across the long weekend, which included canoeing and cultural activities on Friday, followed by a visit to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday. They also had the chance to watch senior rugby action at Parc de Pugh.

On the field, Brecon's under-14s and combined under-15/16s teams took on tourists on Friday afternoon, winning both matches. An evening of presentations and entertainment followed at the rugby club, capping off a memorable day.

Tour organiser Rachel Evans-Taylor told the Brecon & Radnor Express: "I would like to thank everyone involved in making this a weekend to remember, especially the families who hosted the Belluno players.”

“Here’s to a great 15th year of friendship - and we’re already looking forward to our visit to Belluno next year. If any local businesses are interested in sponsoring the 2026 tour, please get in touch because we’d love to hear from you.”

Brecon RFC’s connection with Rugby Belluno began in 2009 and has continued with regular exchange visits between the two clubs, fostering sporting bonds and international friendships.

Belluno is a city and province in the Veneto region of northern Italy, located at the foothills of the Dolomites - a section of the Alps - around 60 miles north of Venice.