France in late push for World Cup

FRANCE were last night making a late run to snatch the hosting rights for the 2023 World Cup, amid ‘ ugly’ political mayhem behind the scenes ahead of today’s final vote in London.

On October 31, South Africa’s bid was formally recommended and it was assumed that the vote of the World Rugby council would ratify this decision.

However, the competing Irish and French bid teams have since mounted late campaigns to sway the ballot their way and it is expected to be a tight decision.

The RFU are understood to be in the midst of the negotiations and their approach has prompted anger in some quarters.

Yesterday, sources indicated that the English union were preparing to commit their three votes — out of a total of 39 — to the Irish bid.

In fact, it was even suggested that the RFU delegation were actively trying to drum up support for Ireland.

However, the indications last night were that there may be a late twist, with France seemingly edging ahead, supposedly armed with the RFU’s backing.

If true, this represents a dramatic U-turn which may be enough to help France’s bid over the line.

A majority of 20 votes or more is required and it is understood that Ireland may drop out after the first round, setting up a deciding vote between France and South Africa.

In contrast to the RFU, Wales are said to be backing South Africa, in what their delegates see as a show of faith in the independent process, which is in danger of being chronically undermined.

Sources have claimed that if the outcome of the ballot goes against the technical review, there may be calls for World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont to resign — or even legal action.

The whole vote build-up was described as a ‘joke’, with deals being done by an ‘old boys’ club’.

The sport is in grave danger of being brought into disrepute by some of its own leading officials.