It is worth keeping in mind on these occasions that rugby union usually strikes gold with its World Cup hosting decisions. Australia proved a runaway success in 2003 despite New Zealand’s de-selection as co-host, France staged a grand tournament four years later, an entire nation of rugby-mad Kiwis rose to the logistical challenge in 2011 and the record sums generated by England 2015 were matched only by the intense interest levels.
Japan will be next up in two years’ time, offering Asia a deserved slice of the action. And now, in 2023, it will be France once again. Plus ça change. The verdict will not go down well in South Africa or Ireland – and that is a major understatement. No one doubts France will put on a good show but at what cost to rugby’s reputation for transparency and integrity? The lure of more dosh, not for the first time, appears to have trumped all else.
Related: France win shock vote to host 2023 Rugby World Cup
1987 (New Zealand)
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