France wins 2023 Rugby World Cup in shock decision
SA was considered a shoo-in, having been recommended by World Rugby’s Board
London — France will host the 2023 Rugby World Cup after the Council of the sport’s governing body went against the recommendations of an extensive evaluation report in a secret ballot on Wednesday. The news comes as a shock, as SA had been recommended by World Rugby’s Board but the council members voted for France. Ireland had also entered a bid to stage the tournament but dropped out in the first round of voting after only securing eight votes with France taking 18 and SA 13. In the second round France won 24 votes and SA garnered only 15 votes. The evaluation report that put SA ahead was criticised by both France and Ireland. It was not binding on the remaining members of the World Rugby Council, who voted in London. Wednesday’s decision, announced by World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont, means France will be staging a World Cup for the second time, having previously hosted the 2007 edition. Reuters and AFP
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