South Africa offers €170m 2023 Rugby World Cup lure

The South African government have approved a €170m guarantee to strengthen the country’s chances of hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Sports Minister Thulas Nxesi made the announcement at a meeting in Pretoria yesterday, ensuring the bid can provide the tournament fee required by World Rugby from any potential host.

The African statement comes just days after the French bid announced €390m in government and private backing, a sum that made their bid “the most attractive and secure economic offer,” according to France 2023 bid director Claude Atcher.