World Rugby announced on Wednesday afternoon (November 15) that France had won the bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

The news was a blow to South Africa, as the country was informed two weeks ago that it was the recommended host nation following an independent audit conducted by World Rugby.

Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa said: “We would like to commend team South Africa for outstanding efforts in trying to secure the Rugby World Cup 2023. Whilst the outcome is not a favourable one, this will not deter South Africa from continuing to showcase both its people and tourism experiences.

“Our vibrant tourism industry stands ready to roll out the welcome mat for the world as more visitors choose to come to South Africa, to not only enjoy the variety of tourism products and experiences but also to enjoy all other sport and lifestyle events hosted in South Africa,” she concluded.

Glenn McKegg, CEO of Springbok Atlas Tours and Safaris, said: “This loss of the RWC 2023 bid is indeed sad news for us as a company. All indications were that SA was the firm favourite, and an event of this nature is so much needed now, to turnaround our economic situation, as well as the benefits it brings to long-term inbound tourism and overall exposure for the country.”

“We set out on this host selection process with the objective of selecting a host that would deliver an outstanding Rugby World Cup in every way,” said Bill Beaumont, Chairman of World Rugby and Rugby World Cup. “Within their bids, all host candidates demonstrated that they could deliver a truly exceptional tournament for teams and fans. We believe that this is the most comprehensive and transparent host selection process ever undertaken by World Rugby.”

“We are bitterly disappointed at this decision and would like to apologise to the people and government of South Africa for raising their hopes,” said Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby.

“We produced a compelling bid document that earned the unanimous recommendation of the Rugby World Cup Ltd board. That recommendation was questioned last week by rivals, but endorsed a second time by World Rugby last week.

“However, the view of the experts and World Rugby’s leadership was overturned by World Rugby Council members, who may have had other factors to take into account,” said Alexander.

However, he wished the 2023 tournament hosts every success.

CEO of SA Rugby, Jurie Roux, has ruled out any suggestions that his organisation may challenge the vote.

“We have said throughout that we would honour both the letter and the spirit of the process and we now consider the 2023 bidding process closed.

“I am sure our country will fulfil the dream of hosting the tournament once again someday. Our hearts bleed that it will not be in 2023,” said Roux.