The final decision is set to be made today

On what is a sad day for Irish sport after the hammering of Martin O’Neil’s side last night, there is a possibility that today could become even more disappointing with the vote to decide who will host the 2023 Rugby World Cup to take place.

World Rugby use the technical report to base their decision, and only a few weeks ago, that report suggested that Ireland was the last country, out of France, South Africa and themselves, to host a Rugby World Cup, citing stadia as a real stumbling block for their bid..

That report isn’t binding and is merely a suggestion for the committee to decide upon, so there is still a glimmer of hope for Ireland to win the vote and host the World Cup,although it is very slim.

Since the original report was published, which suggested South Africa as the best nation to host the tournament, both the Irish and the French have reacted with strongly worded letters as well as a public outcry from Bernard Laporte claiming the article was “amateur”.

The final vote takes place today with the winner being announced at around 1pm, and whilst the report will be used as a cornerstone for the decision, it is not a guarantee that it will be chosen. Reports today even indicate that South Africa’s failure to lobby as much as its rivals might cast doubt over what is was before a fairly routine decision.

The Rugby World Cup 2023 host announcement will be streamed LIVE here on Wednesday at 1300hrs GMT #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/RGERd2LXDW

— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) November 14, 2017

Chris Foy, who reported the results of the technical report before they were officially announced, has today claimed Ireland and France’s reaction has cast an element of doubt over the final decision, with the English RFU potentially supporting the French bid, where before they supported the Irish claim. Wales will follow in New Zealand’s footsteps and get behind the South African bid, as they want to support the integrity of the original report.

Worth emphasising; indications are that RWC2023 vote will go down to the wire & political manoeuvring still going on. ‘Old boys’ club’ busy.

— Chris Foy (@FoyChris) November 14, 2017

The Daily Mail reports that currently it is between the French and the South African’s to host the 2023 World Cup, with Ireland dropping out of the vote. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/article-5082751/France-make-late-run-grab-2023-World-Cup-hosting-rights.html