French Watchdog Details Oversight Failures in 2023 Rugby World Cup Finances
A new report reveals financial mismanagement left French Rugby Federation with up to €28.9 million in losses despite the tournament's sporting success.
- The French Court of Accounts report highlights major oversight failures by the French Rugby Federation and government during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
- Financial losses from the tournament are estimated between €19.2 million and €28.9 million, contradicting initial projections of profitability.
- Claude Atcher, the event's initial organizing committee head, was criticized for management issues that contributed to the financial shortfall.
- The report underscores the lack of clear government guidelines for supporting international sports events, raising concerns for future competitions.
- Despite financial losses, the tournament was celebrated as a public, media, and sporting success, benefiting international rugby more than French organizers.