World Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont, expressed his excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, emphasizing that this tournament marks the 200th anniversary of the sport's inception. He praised France's readiness to host the event, highlighting the widespread support from the nation and its people.

"We know that this nation will be a magnificent host, not just here in Paris but the length and breadth of a nation that loves major events and loves rugby," Sir Bill Beaumont declared, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of rugby.

Beaumont also lauded the record number of international fans expected to attend, with approximately 600,000 supporters from around the world eagerly awaiting the best of rugby and the best of France. He highlighted the warm welcomes received by teams across various host cities, underscoring the enthusiastic support from local communities.

"The stage is set, now it’s down to the teams to perform. I think it’s fair to say that the action will be compelling, spectacular, and unpredictable," Beaumont predicted. He emphasized that Rugby World Cup 2023 would be a tournament of "firsts," welcoming Chile for the first time and three South American teams, along with Portugal making their first appearance since 2007.

In addition to celebrating the sport, Beaumont stressed the importance of projecting values, making a positive impact on society, and inspiring new players and fans. He announced the launch of the "We Are Rugby" promotion, highlighting the sport's commitment to inclusivity and respect.

Furthermore, Beaumont shared plans to ensure a sustainable and equitable global calendar, with the top three teams from each pool in this tournament earning direct qualification for Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. He emphasized ongoing collaboration with unions and partners to create a competitive structure that allows more nations to participate in future Rugby World Cups.

Beaumont expressed gratitude to the French government, host cities, the French Rugby Federation (FFR), and the organizing committee for their contributions to this special event, concluding, "So, the stage is set, the teams are ready, France is ready, let’s get this wonderful Rugby World Cup started."

Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, French Minister for Sport and the Olympic and Paralympic Games, reflected on the exceptional year for sports in France and the significance of hosting the Rugby World Cup 2023. She noted that this tournament marked the first time France hosted the entire event on home soil, highlighting the enthusiasm and support of the French public.

Oudéa-Castéra cited impressive statistics, with 91 percent of the French population supporting the event, and 74 percent expressing a desire to follow it closely. She expressed pride in welcoming the world's top 20 teams, international dignitaries, and over 600,000 foreign visitors over the course of 51 days.

The minister emphasized the government's role in ensuring the successful organization of the tournament, including rigorous preparations for security. She detailed the deployment of 5,500 security personnel daily, rising to 7,000 on some days, as well as 5,000 private security guards in the stadiums and resources for security in the "fan zones."

Oudéa-Castéra also highlighted efforts to enhance public transportation during the tournament, including increased staffing at airports and railway stations. Special attention was given to improving accessibility and mobility, with a goal of 88 percent of spectators using trains for their journeys.

On the health front, the minister outlined plans for medical assistance at competition sites and preparations for exceptional health situations, including the possibility of a late heatwave. She acknowledged the challenges of coordinating schedules between rugby and football in World Cup stadiums, expressing appreciation for the cooperation of football organizations.

Furthermore, Oudéa-Castéra emphasized the importance of public involvement in the event, with fan zones offering entertainment and support from various ministries to promote French culture and local produce. She mentioned a social ticketing scheme benefiting healthcare workers and initiatives to involve children in the tournament's cultural aspects.

In closing, she underscored the social legacy of Rugby World Cup 2023, focusing on the government's commitment to responsible and inclusive sporting events and its impact on rugby development in France.

Alan Gilpin, Chief Executive Officer for World Rugby, expressed his amazement at the excitement building around the tournament. He emphasized the significance of this moment in rugby history, noting that anticipation for this Rugby World Cup was unprecedented.

Gilpin highlighted the addition of three South American teams and Chile's debut, along with Portugal's return after 16 years. He emphasized the global appeal of the tournament, with fans from around the world attending to support these teams.

He drew parallels to the Women's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, citing it as an example of how rugby events can engage a wide audience and drive growth in the sport. Gilpin expressed confidence that this tournament would create opportunities for more people to enjoy rugby, both as spectators and participants.

Success for this tournament, according to Gilpin, would manifest as a great competition with exciting matches that leave fans with lasting memories. He emphasized the importance of the overall experience, both on and off the field, and the role it plays in making rugby more accessible and relevant to a global audience.

Jacques Rivoal, Chairman of Rugby World Cup France 2023, described the building excitement in France leading up to the opening match. He recounted the warm welcomes given to teams in various host cities, including a crowd of over 12,000 welcoming the Irish team in Tours and a guard of honor for Wales in Versailles.

Rivoal highlighted the extensive preparations made to ensure visitors have an exceptional experience in France. With 4,800 volunteers from across the country, the tournament aims to showcase the richness and diversity of France's regions. Over 80 percent of the French population will be within a two-hour journey of a match, promoting regional involvement.

He praised the collaboration between various stakeholders, including the French Ligue Nationale de Rugby, in adapting the French professional rugby calendar to accommodate the World Cup. Rivoal noted the success of the ticketing service, with 1.8 million tickets sold, and the support of 38 companies as competition partners.

The chairman stressed the tournament's legacy, including the goal of registering 100,000 women in rugby in France, promoting the sport in overseas territories and underrepresented areas, and increasing the number of women's rugby clubs. He also highlighted initiatives to address societal issues, such as health rugby sections for cancer and diabetes, inclusion, and combating discrimination.

Rivoal emphasized the role of clubs in fostering unity and positive values, highlighting their educational and civic contributions to French society. He described the federation's mission to extend its societal impact beyond sport, emphasizing inclusivity and community engagement.

In conclusion, Rivoal highlighted the intangible benefits of hosting Rugby World Cup 2023, including the ability to unite the nation and shine a spotlight on grassroots clubs' role in fostering connections and promoting values.

Florian Grill, French Rugby Federation president, underscored the tournament's legacy objectives. He outlined plans to have 100,000 registered women in rugby in France, including players, managers, coaches, and referees. Additionally, he mentioned the Campus 2023 program for apprentices, which aims to create salaried positions in French rugby and support club structures.

Grill emphasized the revitalization of rugby in various regions, including overseas territories and areas where the sport is less established. He stressed the importance of clubs and local organizations in this endeavor and highlighted the educational and societal roles they play.





[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]