South Africa are in the box seat to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup after receiving an official recommendation from the tournament's organising board overnight. While an official decision will be made when the World Rugby Council vote at a meeting on November 15, the council have traditionally followed the recommendation of the board. Ireland and France were also considered as potential hosts after strong bids, however World Rugby boss Bill Beaumont said South Africa had emerged clearly ahead in all seven key criteria such as stadia and financial assurances. It's understood the South African government has committed to provide £40 million in additional funding on top of the £120 million minimum funding guarantee required by World Rugby to host the tournament. South Africa hosted the 1995 World Cup.