Russian President Vladimir Putin has backed a surprise bid from Russia to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The Russian Rugby Federation, who finished bottom of Pool A at Japan 2019 has confirmed the country will bid to stage the tournament, competing against Australia who is the current favourites to earn host status.
World Rugby’s official host bidding process for 2027 will open in February 2021, with the 2027 host decision expected in May 2022.
Founded in 1992, the Rugby Federation of Russia have, recently upgraded its club professional league and believe they can stage the tournament in seven years. Russia hosted a successful 2018 Soccer World Cup and therefore already have the necessary infrastructure and upgraded sports stadiums to host a Rugby World Cup.
“On July 24, the supreme council of the Russian Rugby Federation established a committee to prepare an application to host the Rugby World Cup in Russia in 2027,” read a statement on the Russian Rugby Federation website
“Anticipating the creation of the committee, chairman of the supreme council of the Russian Rugby Federation Igor Artemyev recalled that the initiative to prepare an application to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Russia was supported by the president of Russia at the council for the development of physical culture and sports."
“The necessary consultations were held with the participation of the ministry of sports. By the end of this year detailed information and criteria for the application are expected.”