IRELAND STILL TRYING TO WIN WORLD CUP BID
Ross hopeful of success despite review supporting South Africa
Shane Ross THE Government has insisted the bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup is still winnable despite a review recommending South Africa.
Ministers Shane Ross and Brendan Griffin vowed it is a “setback” that can be “overcome”.
The Rugby World Cup Board made an initial proposal for South Africa but a final decision will be made on November 15 when the governing council convenes to cast its vote.
A technical review group scored each of the bids from Ireland, South Africa and France on five criteria that consist of finance and tournament guarantees, venues and host cities, infrastructure, vision and concept, and organisation and schedule.
Sports Minister Ross said: “This is a difficult setback but one we can overcome. World Rugby made it clear they were very impressed by the quality and detail of the Irish bid.
“The report highlighted Ireland has all the capabilities to host an outstanding Rugby World Cup in 2023. I am strongly encouraged by two things – firstly World Rugby have made it clear ‘any of the three candidates could host a successful Rugby World Cup’. Ireland’s bid team I am also encouraged we ran both South Africa and France very close in the scoring.”
Minister of State Griffin also insisted the bid is still winnable.
He added: Ultimately, the decision rests with the council members of World Rugby. We can still do this.
“The IRFU will draw on all of their Irish spirit over the coming weeks to relay Ireland’s compelling proposition to the council ahead of the vote on November 15.
“South Africa may be the favourite now but the final vote is two weeks away – a long time in sport and politics.”