SA Rugby gets consolation

CAPE TOWN. — South African Rugby is set for a R330m windfall from the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. When France was surprisingly awarded hosting rights – despite World Rugby recommending South Africa hold the tournament – it was revealed they had promised the highest financial return of £350m (R6 billion) to the sport’s governing body.

The Telegraph website reported that the breakdown of projected returns to the individual unions “showed why the French bid proved so attractive”.

The 10 tier-one countries (South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, England, France, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy) are expected to share a record £192.5m (R3.3 billion) payout from World Rugby because of the decision to stage the 2023 tournament in France. That means a bonus of around R330m to SA Rugby.

“That sounds like a lot of money for the tier-one market but they generate 95 percent of the revenues in a World Cup,” Brett Gosper, World Rugby chief executive, said.

The remainder of the money will be invested into tier two and tier three countries and to develop the game in untapped markets such as Germany, Brazil, China, India and the USA.

In the controversial voting system, Ireland were eliminated from the World Cup hosting process in the first round, getting just eight votes while France received 18 and South Africa 13. France won the decisive second round from South Africa with the votes going 24-15 in their favour.

Meanwhile, former Springbok prop Rob Kempson says it’s time for Allister Coetzee to “move on” as national coach. Coetzee is fighting to keep his job after two tumultuous seasons in charge of the national team.

During his tenure the Boks won only 11 of 25 Tests for a meagre 44% win-record. Kempson, who played 37 Tests for the Springboks between 1998 and 2003, told Reuters that it was time for SA Rugby to look at hiring an overseas coach.

“There is not a shadow of doubt they (SA Rugby) should be looking at other options. It’s unfortunate for Allister, but it’s time for him to move on,” Kempson said.

“I think they should go for someone from outside, (New Zealanders) Robbie Deans and John Mitchell are two that come to mind. Why wouldn’t they go for people who have proven expertise of putting teams into position where they can win Test matches? — AFP.