USA RUGBY HAS decided not to bid for the right to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup, having previously expressed an interest in doing do.

World Rugby confirmed the US’ decision not to proceed in the bidding procedure this afternoon, meaning that only four nations have formally confirmed their intention of bidding to host the global tournament.

Ireland’s rivals will be South Africa, Italy and France.

The Aviva Stadium will be part of the Irish bid. Source: Colm O'Neill/INPHO

The unions of the those four nations all met the 15 June deadline for formally confirming their expression of interest in hosting RCW2023, the latest phase in a process that will culminate in the host nation being selected in May 2017.

World Rugby will be somewhat disappointed with the USA’s decision to drop out of the race, although chairman Bernard Lapasset stated his belief that a World Cup will eventually take place in the States.

We are delighted with the strong level of Rugby World Cup 2023 hosting interest from unions and governments, which highlights the enormous appeal of Rugby World Cup as a low-risk, high-return economic, social and sporting driver,” said Lapasset.

“We look forward to further detailed dialogue as the process progresses.

“Although USA Rugby ultimately decided not to proceed with a formal bid, it was very encouraging that they originally had expressed an interest in hosting rugby’s flagship tournament.

“In the end, they decided to focus instead on other upcoming projects, not least the hosting of Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018, but they are an ambitious and progressive union and I have no doubt they will bid to host Rugby World Cup at some point in the future.”