The Irish RWC 2023 bid team have been told by World Rugby board members that Ireland's hopes of hosting the tournament have a better chance in 2027, should South Africa secure the 2023 event at November's vote.
The Irish Independent reports that behind the scenes the IRFU have been advised a 2027 bid has a greater chance of success, given by that stage it could be 12 years since the tournament has been hosted in Europe.
Ireland's hopes of hosting the 2023 tournament were dealt a considerable blow during the week when World Rugby's technical review committee recommended South Africa as the most suitable host nation, with France in second place and Ireland last.
Ireland secured 72.25%, behind South Africa's 78.97% and France's 75.88%. Whilst damaging, this does not entirely kill the bid. New Zealand's 2011 bid was successful despite not securing the committee's recommendation whilst the Rio Olympics was fifth in the evaluation process but went on to secure the Games.
South Africa are now 1/4 favourites for the honour, but the IRFU have stated they will continue to lobby until the vote takes place in the hope of securing the required 20 vote majority.
The votes are allocated as follows: England 3, Wales 3, Scotland 3, Italy 3, New Zealand 3, Australia 3, Argentina 3 and then regionally Oceania 2, South America 2, Rugby Americas North 2, Africa 2, rest of Europe 2, Asia 2, Canada 1, USA 1, Japan 2 and Georgia 1.
The chairman of Ireland's Bid Oversight Board, Dick Spring, told the Indo many international board members were surprised at the recommendation:
Ireland is now in dialogue with its many friends throughout world rugby and their initial response to us has been one of surprise at the evaluation report and its finding.
We are clearly up against two big experienced countries. We have put forward a world class bid. Rugby World Cup have confirmed that we can deliver a tournament, and we believe that there are many unions around the world who will look favourably on an Irish tournament.
Argentina have already announced its bid to host the 2027 World Cup bid while USA Rugby CEO Nigel Melville has spoken publicly about the prospect of his nation tendering a bid.
As for the 2023 tournament, the final vote takes place on November 15.
