France to stage 2007 Rugby World Cup

FRANCE last night beat England’s bid for the right to stage the 2007 Rugby World Cup and, as a result of the decision, Ireland will now host three first round games in the competition.

France won 18 of the 21 votes at stake in the voting by the International Rugby board with England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand having two votes each, with Canada, Argentina, Japan, Italy and the International Amateur Rugby Federation (FIRA) holding one apiece.

Both countries made their final presentations yesterday. French sports minister Jean-Francois Lamour hailed the IRB's decision.