Yanis Darras // Photo credit: David Rogers / GETTY IMAGES ASIAPAC / Getty Images via AFP
For the second time in its history, France is hosting the Rugby World Cup. For a month and a half, around twenty teams from all over the world will compete to try to win. Because, despite the existence of the completion for 36 years, only four nations have won the competition. What are they ? Europe 1 takes stock.
France is preparing to vibrate to the rhythm of the scrums. From September 8 to October 28, 2023, France will host the 2023 Rugby World Cup. For a month and a half, 20 teams from around the world will compete to try to lift the precious World Cup. A challenge that France, the host country, hopes to meet. Because despite two finals played in the 10th edition of the competition, the Blues have not yet managed to claim the title of rugby world champions.
South Africa neck and neck with New Zealand
Because only 4 countries can boast of having brought the cup home. Among these lucky few, the South Africans are those who have won the most. The African country has won the title of rugby world champion no less than three times (in 1995, 2007 and 2019).
A record tied with that of New Zealand. The All-Blacks won their first title in 1987, during the first edition, before winning the cup again in 2011, then in 2015. Three victories, including two against the Blues, who made the All-Backs, the pet peeve of the French.
England, last in the ranking
Just behind these two behemoths, Australia has no reason to pale, with almost two victories and no less than four finals to its credit. Finally, little thumb of the winners, England has only won the competition once, despite four contested finals.
It remains to be seen whether France will now succeed in becoming one of the great nations to win the oval ball.