The decision is a surprise. France will host the 2023 Rugby World Cup at the expense of South Africa and Ireland.
In a vote held in London, the country secured the majority of the 39 votes, much to the surprise of those present. South Africa had been recommended on October 31 by World Rugby after topping an evaluation report.
Nine cities will host the competition, including Nice.
The electoral body was composed of eighteen leaders holding a total of 39 votes, as detailed by L’Equipe. Seven nations had three votes (Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, England, Scotland, Wales, Italy), Japan had to settle for two votes, and four nations represented only one vote each (Georgia, Romania, Canada, United States).
In addition to this, the six confederations (Asia, Africa, South America, North America, Europe, Oceania) had the right to two votes each. France obtained 18 votes in the first round, and 24 in the second.
“I am proud that France has been chosen. Our bid was very strong, we will do our best and this World Cup will be great,” reacted Bernard Laporte, president of the French Rugby Federation.
