With three years to go until Rugby World Cup 2015 kicks off in England, confidence is high that the world’s showpiece Rugby tournament will be spectacular, creating a lasting legacy both for England and the continued global development of Rugby.
Aside from the smooth running of the the biggest tournament to date, the England Rugby 2015 (ER 2015) organising body and tournament owners Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) are working hard to deliver a Rugby World Cup that will offer a winning blend of international class facilities for teams and travelling supporters, while providing the catalyst for Rugby to grow beyond its traditional heartlands.
In the three years since the Rugby Football Union (RFU) was awarded the tournament, significant foundations have been laid for the successful delivery of a Rugby World Cup that will see 2.8 million tickets available and upwards of 400,000 international fans visiting England.
Since the England Rugby 2015 offices opened in January 2012, key senior management positions have been filled and a strong partnership established between ER 2015 and RWCL, learnings from an outstanding Rugby World Cup 2011 implemented, operational planning advanced and initial venue visits and assessments undertaken.
Speaking at a Twickenham media briefing to mark the occasion, RWCL Managing Director Brett Gosper said: “Rugby World Cup Limited is confident that, as we reach this key landmark, the planning and preparation is on track and in line with previous Rugby World Cups.”
“Three years to go traditionally and naturally sees a step up in planning triggered by the Pool Allocation Draw and through a strong partnership with ER 2015 we are perfectly positioned to kick on into a significant year for the delivery of what promises to be the biggest Rugby World Cup to date.”
“Sport is very much at the forefront of people’s minds in Britain thanks to a phenomenal Olympic and Paralympic Games and we will learn from that experience and continue to focus on the delivery of a tournament that will be great for sports fans in Britain and great for the global Rugby family.”
For ER 2015 Chairman Andy Cosslett, the three years to go landmark provides the appropriate opportunity to outline the next steps for a tournament that will draw a global television audience of more than four billion.
“The number one priority for ER 2015 is to ensure the organisation of a first class event that meets the needs of players, coaches, spectators and the global development of the Game,” said Cosslett.
“We’ve been working very closely with tournament owners Rugby World Cup Limited and the RFU, and are confident that the groundwork is in place for an outstanding Tournament.”
“We have a big year in front of us and Rugby fans around the world can look forward to the selection of the venues that will be at the very heart of this nationwide festival of Rugby and culture, the match schedule that will bring together the world's top teams, the high-level ticketing strategy and the continuation of the global qualification process.”