…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media.
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber, along with other rugby enthusiasts, participated in World Rugby’s celebrations to mark the 100-day countdown to the Rugby World Cup 2023.
With less than three months remaining until the tournament begins in France, preparations are in full swing for what promises to be a grand celebration of rugby’s power to unite people and communities.
The iconic Webb Ellis Cup, adorned with bespoke Rugby World Cup 2023 livery, arrived in Paris, symbolizing the commencement of the countdown.
The cup will be passed from reigning champions South Africa to the hosts, France, signifying that the event is truly underway.
Nienaber’s Anticipation for RWC 2023
Jacques Nienaber expressed his disbelief that four years have passed since the previous tournament but conveyed his excitement for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2023.
He acknowledged the meticulous planning by the organizers and the excellent stadiums and facilities in the host cities, expressing his belief that the event will be unforgettable for both the participating teams and the fans attending.
Nienaber recognized the intense competition among the top teams worldwide and emphasized the need for his team to perform at their best in every match to have a chance at defending their title.
Subtitle: Excitement Grows as RWC Approaches
Attention has shifted to the various activities taking place in the ten host cities, culminating in a spectacular light show at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Additionally, the tournament medals, crafted entirely from recycled mobile phones donated by fans and community rugby clubs, will be unveiled, showcasing the unique connection between players and fans and rugby’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The organizers shared the results of a public survey conducted with 1,500 French nationals, indicating that this Rugby World Cup is expected to be the most popular and impactful in history.
The survey revealed that 90 percent of the French population supports the nation’s hosting of the tournament, with 76 percent planning to join the celebrations in various ways.
The event is expected to attract over 600,000 international visitors, breaking records set by previous Rugby World Cups.
Tickets for the matches were sold out well in advance, demonstrating the immense interest and support for the tournament.
Furthermore, it was revealed that 72 percent of ticket holders plan to attend with family, and 45 percent will attend with friends, highlighting the celebration of togetherness that the event fosters.
Rugby Villages and Social Responsibility
The host cities of Rugby World Cup 2023 have begun unveiling vibrant rugby villages, which will serve as celebration areas where fans from France and around the world can come together to experience the tournament.
These rugby villages will accommodate up to 40,000 people and will be open to all with free admission.
They will offer a diverse range of activities, including live screenings of matches, live music, food and beverages, rugby-related events, cultural performances, and designated areas for children.
Detailed schedules for each host city will be announced in the coming weeks.
Rugby World Cup 2023 aims to be a competition that leaves a positive impact, setting new standards in social responsibility, inclusion, and sustainable development for major international rugby events.
The organizers have already implemented tangible projects, such as the Campus 2023 apprentice program, the official charity Rugby au Coeur, and the XV of Gastronomy, who will design menus featuring seasonal, local products.
World Rugby and French Organizers’ Expectations
World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont expressed his confidence that Rugby World Cup 2023 is on track to become the greatest celebration of rugby and togetherness.
He highlighted the anticipation and record-breaking numbers in ticket sales and international visitors, emphasizing the excitement surrounding which nation will ultimately lift the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup.
The French organizers also expressed their confidence in delivering the most popular edition of the tournament to date.
They envision an incredible level of excitement shared by both French and international fans across the country and its regions, with the opening match between France and New Zealand setting the tone for an unforgettable Rugby World Cup 2023.
Springbok Coach and Others Join the Celebrations
Jacques Nienaber and other rugby personalities joined in the celebration of the 100-day mark until Rugby World Cup 2023.
This significant milestone marks the final stages of preparation and builds anticipation for the upcoming tournament.