It’s been reported by The Telegraph this morning that the RFU (Rugby Football Union) is ‘strongly considering’ making a bid to host the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
The initial plan was thought to be a ‘joint bid with the other home unions’, but they have since backtracked on this possibility.
It’s now being suggested that Wales, Ireland and Scotland are planning to launch a joint Celtic bid for the showpiece tournament.
Australia are the favourite to win the rights to host the 2027 tournament, with Russia also set to bid. The USA has also declared its interest in bidding for the 2031 World Cup, but the Union are currently struggling financially.
Rugby Australia commenced its Foundation Planning in October last year with the Host of the 2027 Rugby World Cup set to be announced by World Rugby in May 2022.
Rugby Australia Chairman, Hamish McLennan said: “On behalf of Rugby Australia and the Australian Rugby community, I want to thank Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Australian Government for supporting Australia’s bid to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our country and we have already made significant headway in laying the foundations for a successful bid.
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20 Rugby World Cup Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
1. King Jonny
England’s 2003 World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson remains the top points-scorer in finals history, with 277, from one try, 28 conversions, 58 penalties and 14 drop-goals.
2. Most tries
New Zealand’s Jonah Lomu in 1995 and South Africa’s Bryan Habana in 2007 share the record for the most tries in one competition, with eight.
3. Seeing red
Canada is the only team to have received two red cards in one match, in a 20-0 defeat to South Africa in 1995, Gareth Rees and Rod Snow the culprits.
4. Same whistle…
The same whistle is blown for the opening game of every Rugby World Cup tournament. It was first used in 1905 by a Welsh referee during a game between England and New Zealand.
5. Biggest winning margin – 142 Australia v Namibia 2003
The Wallabies routed Namibia in 2003, on a scoreline of 142-0. New Zealand are the only team to score more points in a match, defeating Japan 145-17 in 1995.null