World Rugby has released a statement defending the decision of the 2023 Rugby World Cup recommendation committee to select South Africa as its preferred host over France and Ireland. "World Rugby is concerned by the reported comments by host candidates regarding the Rugby World Cup 2023 host selection process and recommendation, and in particular those attributed to the Fédération Française de Rugby," the statement read. "While disappointment and high-emotion following the announcement of a recommendation is understandable, such comments are both unfounded and inaccurate. "World Rugby has implemented a transparent, objective, professional and robust host selection process. The comprehensive technical evaluation has been undertaken by a team of World Rugby and third-party experts, independently scrutinised by The Sports Consultancy against agreed scoring criteria. The process was supported by the host candidates, the Rugby World Cup Board and Council throughout. "We wi