Japan steps up bid to host 2015 Rugby World Cup

JAPAN has declared its bid to host the 2015 Rugby World Cup and bring the event to Asia for the first time, after learning lessons from its narrow defeat to New Zealand for the 2011 contest.

“We have formally decided to bid to host the 2015 World Cup. We decided because of the enthusiastic support at home and overseas,” said Japan RFU president Yoshiro Mori.

“It is necessary to stage it in Asia to make rugby a truly worldwide sport. I am sure it will be a wonderful promotion for World Cup rugby to stage it in Asia,” added the former prime minister.

Japan claimed not being awarded the 2011 event was a lost opportunity to expand the game into weaker areas.

The 2007 World Cup will be co-hosted by France, Scotland and Wales.

Japan play Hong Kong today in the final round of Asia qualifying for next year’s World Cup before tackling South Korea next weekend. Hong Kong will play South Korea next Tuesday.