Exclusive: SA Rugby Plays Down 2035 World Cup Bid Talk Amid Government Backing

SA Rugby has poured cold water on mounting speculation around a potential bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, despite strong signals of intent from the South African government.

At a recent event hosted by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Deputy Minister Peace Mabe publicly declared that the government would be willing to back a South African bid. The statement reignited hopes of bringing the tournament back to the country for the first time since 1995, when South Africa’s iconic World Cup triumph became a defining moment in the nation's history.

However, SA Rugby has moved swiftly to dampen expectations. Andy Colquhoun, General Manager of Communications and Commercial at the federation, stressed that no formal decision has been made.

“We really don’t want to get into this debate right now. We really haven’t got a position and if we say anything it could get blown out of proportion. Especially as it’s almost certain to go to Europe,” Colquhoun told SportsBoom.com. 

He explained that SA Rugby would only consider a bid once World Rugby officially opens the process, which is not expected to happen for another two years. 

Until then, the federation is keen to avoid fuelling speculation that could create unrealistic public expectations or complicate political discussions behind the scenes.

Financial Risks Loom Large After 2023 World Cup Losses

A major point of hesitation appears to be the financial risk associated with hosting such a large-scale event. France, the host of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, reportedly suffered losses of nearly R633 million, despite the tournament being hailed as a sporting success.

The French Rugby Federation’s financial struggles have raised serious concerns about the viability of hosting, particularly for nations where sporting budgets are already stretched. For SA Rugby, ensuring a bid is financially sustainable would be critical, and the organisation has not yet entered into formal consultations with the national government about how the costs might be shared or offset.

Spain Leads Race as Bidding Process Yet to Open

While South Africa weighs its options, other nations are already positioning themselves strongly. Spain is currently seen as the frontrunner to host the 2035 edition, with officials there making no secret of their ambitions. 

In addition, Middle Eastern heavyweights Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are believed to be exploring bids, promising significant financial clout if they proceed.

World Rugby is expected to confirm the bidding timeline within the next 24 months. Until then, South Africa’s dreams of recreating the magic of 1995 remain on hold — at least publicly.