The fastest throw of a rugby ball was 48.0 mph (77.25 km/h) and was achieved by Joe Simpson (UK), a professional rugby player for London Wasps, in an event organised by EMC (UK & Ireland) in London, UK, on 14 April 2011.

The event was organised by EMC, the official sponsors of London Wasps rugby team, to promote their forthcoming St George’s Day game.

5 professional rugby players (ex and current London Wasps) competed against each other in a face-off challenge and each player had 6 attempts. The players were Nick Berry, Kenny Logan, Tom Varndell, Mark Robinson and Joe Simpson.

4 players exceeded the minimum requirement of 40 mph, but Joe Simpson achieved the fastest speedof 48.0 mph and was awarded the record.

The rugby throws were carried out in a speed cage to measure the speed of the ball.