So close yet so far, the 2023 World Cup is a major priority for the French Rugby Federation.
On the occasion of a France national rugby team camp in Nice before traveling to Dublin for a Six Nations match, Bernard Laporte took the opportunity to meet Christian Estrosi and formalize the city’s bid in this matter.
Total inception. The FFR will present its 2023 World Cup project to international bodies. Meanwhile, Nice is submitting its bid to the FFR to be among the 8 to 10 cities selected if successful. This was the main takeaway from the conference.
Bernard Laporte did not hide his good spirits and interest after touring the facilities.
“Nice is off to a good start. It is a globally renowned city with 300 sunny days a year, and I think no team would hesitate to establish its base camp here.”
A conducive setting, indeed, but also one with recognized experience and logistics.
This is explained by Christian Estrosi. “There were very positive outcomes after Euro 2016. Nice was voted the most popular city according to satisfaction surveys. The airport is also a significant asset.”
Before thinking about 2023, the French team will face Japan at the end of the year. This gives Nice a chance to submit its candidacy. A real-world test for a city that has already hosted the French national soccer team twice.
The capital of the French Riviera aims to develop rugby with its team, facilities, and training programs.
The arrival of a World Cup on its soil would be a great stepping stone, confirms Claude Artcher, project director. “A World Cup bid increases exposure but is also a strategic development focus. Coming to Nice with a club development project is part of the criteria. It helps in making the selection.”
