Gear up, rugby fans! The clock is ticking, and we’re on the cusp of what promises to be an absolute cracker of a tournament. The Rugby World Cup 2023 is just around the corner, and boy, it’s shaping up to be a real showstopper. Kicking off from September 8 to October 28, 2023, France is rolling out the red carpet, playing host for the second time.
This Year’s Tournament is Special
2023 isn’t just about the World Cup; it marks two centuries since the legendary William Webb Ellis, a whippersnapper from Rugby School, decided to play a bit naughty. He took a gamble by catching the ball and sprinting with it in 1823, showing, as they said, “a fine disregard for the rules.” And just like that, our beloved game of rugby football was born. Cheers to that!
Teams and Team News
Now, let’s dive deep into the ruck of details, shall we? We’ve got 20 top-tier teams gearing up for glory—12 of whom clinched their spots from their standout performances in Japan 2019, while the other eight battled their way through global qualifiers.
If you are planning to wager on the tournament it would help to look at the team news. Also, it would be wise to register with MozzartBet for a more immersive wagering experience. You should have started creating a list of your preferred teams by now.
The adrenaline will be palpable across 48 riveting matches, spread out in nine picturesque French venues. And guess what? The iconic Stade de France, just a stone’s throw north of Paris, will be the battleground for both the opening game and the much-anticipated final.
In a notable move for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2023, teams are now permitted to submit a 33-player squad, up from the 31 players allowed in the 2019 edition. All squads must be finalized and submitted to World Rugby by 1 September.
Teams should be mindful of an essential caveat: any new player can only be called up if another player is first withdrawn from the active 33-player roster, typically due to long-term injuries. This change is expected to offer teams greater flexibility and strategic depth during the tournament.
The Tournament’s Buzz is Real!
But it’s not just about the tries and tackles. The buzz is REAL! We’re talking over 600,000 international fans descending upon French shores, and just to give you an idea of the hype—tickets were sold out a whole year in advance.
The Tournament Hopes to Redefine the Legacy of Global Sports Events
And it’s not just about the game. The 2023 edition aims to leave a mark beyond the pitch. With an emphasis on sustainability, education, environmental respect, and inclusivity, this Rugby World Cup is setting the bar high, hoping to redefine the legacy of global sports events.
To sum it up? This year’s Rugby World Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a global celebration. So, lace up those boots, and get ready for a rugby spectacle like no other!