Hugo McNeill: ‘We’re part of a 70 million worldwide family of Irish people’

Hugo McNeill of the Ireland Rugby World Cup 2023 bid on Friday admitted that the revitalised French bid for the tournament represents a “formidable competitor”.

Speaking at the Sport For Business Sporting Year Ahead, McNeill added that the forthcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup is a chance for Ireland to show its ability to host international tournaments, while also noting that an Irish tournament would fit World Rugby’s aim of growing the game in the US.

“We have massive respect for France and it may be coming to the awareness of the French people a bit later, their bid. After Leinster-Toulon last year, I spoke to Toulon supporters who weren’t even aware France were bidding.