The IRFU are now in pole position to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup following an announcement from the South African Sports minister today. Controversial figure, Fikile Mbalula has again intervened in the Springboks affairs, this time outlawing the side from hosting international tournaments for failing to meet ''..transformation targets''. The decision will not be re-visited until October of this year meaning that the SARU will not be able to table an official bid by the June cut-off point. South Africa's Cricket, Netball and Athletics teams have also been affected by the same ruling.
The decision comes in light of government policies in South Africa aimed at increasing the numbers of coloured players and athletes in line with employment regulations across other professions. The 'transformation' targets that the SARU have failed to meet has been a running issue in the South African media. Prior to last year's Rugby World Cup in England Mbalula attempted to seize the passports of the South African rugby team and management in a bid to force the side to abide by race quotas. Under Heyneke Meyer the Springboks saw the fewest number of coloured players receive caps as compared to any other SARU coach in the professional era.
The threat to prevent the Springboks from competing at last year's showpiece proved to be empty but this ban could be significantly more effective. A global event such as the World Cup demands government partnership with the respective union to ensure, among many things, financial security. South Africa simply cannot host the tournament without their governments support. Tipped by many to gain the eventual rights to host the 2023 tournament, the SARU are clearly being strong-armed by their government into action.
If the issue is not resolved by June then it will leave Ireland competing with Italy and Argentina to host the 2023 World Cup.
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