“No nation was very prepared and so anticipating hosting such an event,” declared the President of World Rugby as he inaugurated the Rugby World Cup 2023. This prestigious competition, now in its tenth edition, is set to captivate the world as France hosts it from September 8th to October 28th.
A Grand Spectacle
With 48 thrilling matches planned across nine stadiums in different host cities, both fans and players are preparing for a 50-day extravaganza. Expectations are high, with a record-breaking 600,000 international supporters ready to witness 20 different teams from around the globe compete in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
The Notable Stade de France
The Rugby World Cup 2023 starts off on the hallowed grounds of the Stade de France, located in Plaine Saint-Denis, just outside the bustling streets of Paris. This historic event coincides with the sport’s bicentenary celebrations, marking a watershed moment in its history. Furthermore, it highlights rugby’s rich legacy.
A Worldwide Gathering
The initial match on September 8, 2023, features a standoff between France and New Zealand, played before a thundering horde of 80,000 fans representing nations from each edge of the world. The Stade de France will host ten matches, including the opening game, quarterfinals, semi-finals, and the much anticipated final.
Rugby’s Strongholds
Explaining the selection of France as the host nation, the President of World Rugby stressed, “France will be a magnificent host, not just in that frame of mind throughout the country, which embraces great competitions and rugby.” Aside from Saint-Denis, eight additional French cities, including Toulouse, Marseille, and Bordeaux, will host the event.
Toulouse, eminent as the support of French rugby, will gladly host six matches, hardening its status as a rugby stronghold. Marseille, historically more associated with football, will likewise see six exciting encounters at the notable Vélodrome stadium. Bordeaux, Nantes, Saint-Étienne, and Pleasant will all host four matches. Furthermore, Lyon and Lille, with five each, hope to establish themselves as major rugby hubs.
Spearheading Social and Environmental Initiatives
The French Ministry of Sports intends for the Rugby World Cup 2023 to set new benchmarks for responsibility and preservation. To achieve these goals, we have identified four important tasks:
- Circular and Sustainable Economy: We will launch projects during the competition to promote a circular and sustainable economy.
- Education, Training, and Employment: Efforts will zero in on education, training, and employment opportunities for all.
- Environmental Protection: Stringent measures will be implemented to respect and protect the environment.
- Consideration and Sharing: The event is geared to promoting inclusivity and making everyone feel a part of the celebration.
The Rugby World Cup has signed a charter for ethical and sustainable athletic events, which includes 15 eco-friendly initiatives. Furthermore, coordinators have vowed to stick to the World Cup social charter, stressing the event’s social responsibility. The “We Are Rugby” promotional campaign seeks to highlight the sport’s overall commitment to inclusivity and respect.
Where to Catch the Action
French viewers may watch all of the Rugby World Cup 2023 action live on TF1, France Télévisions, and M6. While TF1, with its longstanding partnership with World Rugby, will broadcast the competition’s head matches, additional survey options are available.
In Paris, the Place de la Concorde will feature giant screens, and match-concerts will take place at the Philharmonie. During the competition, a public-access Rugby Village will be open from 2 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Thursdays through Sundays. Fan zones and large screens will also be available in Saint-Denis, Seine-Saint-Denis, and many other cities in the Ile-de-France region.
All host towns are developing Rugby Villages, which will be public gathering and celebration areas. Rugby Villages are critical to the World Cup’s organization, spreading festivities beyond the stadiums. With the upcoming clash between Eng VS AUS, the vibrancy of these villages will undoubtedly add to the excitement and global camaraderie surrounding this highly anticipated game.
