SOUTH Africans were left stunned on Wednesday as World Rugby announced that France will be the hosts of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Two weeks ago the Rugby World Cup board released a report placing South Africa first across a range of criteria on which the candidates were assessed, ranging from stadiums to financial assurances.
The decision came as a major shock after World Rugby had last month named South Africa as the recommended hosts of the tournament following an independent audit.
SA had been recommended by World Rugby’s Board but the Council members voted for France
In the first round of voting France got 18 votes, South Africa 13 and Ireland 8.
Ireland were then eliminated for the second round of voting which saw France secure 24 and South Africa gets 15.
This will be the second time France host the Rugby World Cup since 2007, while South Africa last hosted the tournament in 1995.
