Russia keen to bid for RWC Sevens 2013

[snoopy snoopy dog dog]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div>

Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) has confirmed that the Rugby Union of Russia has expressed an interest to tender for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013. A key element of the strategy is the hosting of Rugby Sevens' showpiece tournament and the Union has confirmed that it has the full support from the Russian Government in its quest to host a major international Rugby event for the first time.

"Rugby Sevens is a major driving force behind the continued growth of the men's and women's Game around the world, particularly in new markets and we are excited that the Rugby Union of Russia views the hosting of the tournament and a focus on Sevens development will provide a major stimulus for growth within Russia."

In order to concentrate all its resources on the bid, the Union has also confirmed that it will not continue with its tender for Rugby World Cup 2019. The Union had been one of eight Unions bidding to host the tournament, but following the strategic review the Union has committed to bidding for single-city events, including Rugby World Cup Sevens.

"After analysing all the aspects involved in the organisation of Rugby World Cup 2019, the Rugby Union of Russia has decided to withdraw its intention to tender," said Rugby Union of Russia President Viatcheslav Kopiev.

"We had the full backing of the Russian Government who were committed to guaranteeing the £96 million minimum tournament fee for 2019, but the Union believes that the best focus of our resources for growing the Game within Russia is the identification of single-city tournaments and the role of Sevens in attracting new men, women and children to Rugby."

"Tendering for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013 is a natural step after our bid for the 2009 tournament and we are also delighted to have received backing from the highest levels of Government," added Kopiev.[/b]

http://www.rwcsevens.com/home/news/newsid=...rwc+sevens+2013

So Russia pull out of the bidding to host the 2019 RWC which they were very unlikely to win hosting rights bidding to, in favor of bidding for the 2013 Sevens tournament. It's good to see that they have government backing. While it would be a stretch to say that Russia are a coming power in world rugby, they're certainly moving in the right direction with qualification for 2011 looking very possible, a semi pro league already in situ at home and now declaring serious interest in hosting the Sevens event in 2013 (following on from a bid for the 2009 event).

 

[alexrugby]

Sorry for being political but:

Welcome to great Russia, if some of the players will cross "red line" this guy will deal with him :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: