Overview
- The Cour des comptes report identifies significant organizational failures in the management of the Rugby World Cup 2023, blaming inadequate oversight by the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and the State.
- Despite the tournament's popular and media success, the FFR suffered financial losses between €19.2 million and €28.9 million, while World Rugby recorded record profits.
- The State's lack of early intervention and oversight, only addressed after a governance crisis in mid-2022 involving harassment allegations against Claude Atcher, contributed to the mismanagement.
- The report criticizes excessive financial commitments made by the FFR during its bid to host the tournament, including a €196 million fee paid to World Rugby.
- Recommendations include establishing clearer frameworks and independent oversight mechanisms for organizing future international sporting events, with implications for upcoming competitions like the 2030 Winter Olympics.