The 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) will take place in France, with the first game on 8 September and the final match on 28 October 2023. This means that the Rugby World Cup is now less than 18 months away and for many fans, the countdown has officially begun. But which teams have already qualified? And what can we look forward to in the 2023 RWC?
The last World Cup took place in 2019 and was hosted by Japan. Without a doubt, the 2019 RWC served up many surprises, including South Africa’s victory. While England had been the firm favourites, it was South Africa’s incredible 32-12 win that saw them take the title.
The 2019 tournament was South Africa’s third Rugby World Cup victory—their two previous victories were in 2007 and 1995.
So, what we can expect from the 2023 RWC?
Who are the 2023 RWC favourites?
As of May 2022, France and New Zealand are the bookie favourites for 2023. While the previous winners, South Africa, currently sit at number four.
Here are the current odds according to Betfair:
- France – 9/4
- New Zealand – 9/4
- England – 11/2
- South Africa – 6-1
- Ireland – 8-1
- Australia – 12/1
- Wales – 20/1
- Scotland – 40-1
- Argentina – 50-1
- Fiji – 150-1
- Japan – 150-1
- USA – 500-1
- Italy – 500-1
- Tonga – 500-1
- Georgia – 500-1
- Samoa – 500-1
- Namibia – 500-1
- Romania – 500-1
- Uruguay – 500-1
France and New Zealand
After their Six Nations win, France are firm favourites going into the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Les Blues dominated during the Six Nations and saw winning tries scored by fan favourites Gabin Villière and Antoine Dupont.
With players like this, Fabien Galthie’s side are well placed going into 2023. In fact, his team will benefit from the perfect hybrid of experience and youth, with his team having a median age of 27 during the Rugby World Cup.
In addition to France, New Zealand have also secured top odds. Interestingly, Les Blues and the All Blacks are due to face off in the opening match of the RWC, as France take on New Zealand on 8 September 2023. Ultimately, the outcome of this match will have a huge impact, both on odds and on the likelihood of victory.
Who will win the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
There is much talk about France and the 2023 Rugby World Cup but the All Blacks should not be overlooked. After all, New Zealand have won the Rugby World Cup three times — first in 1987, second in 2011 and most recently, in 2015. France, on the other hand, have never won the RWC. However, they have finished in second place three times, two of which were in 1987 and 2011, when they lost to New Zealand.
So, who will win the 2023 Rugby World Cup? Will the All Blacks claim the title once again? Or will France finally beat their long-standing rivals? All will be revealed in 2023.
