The Rugby World Cup 2023 is coming to France in less than a year, and it promises to be a spectacular showcase of the best rugby talent in the world. From September 8 to October 28, 2023, 20 teams will battle it out for the Webb Ellis Cup, the most coveted trophy in rugby. If you are a rugby fan, you don't want to miss this opportunity to witness the action live in France. In this blog post, we will be covering interesting topics you need to know about the tournament.

France 2023: A tournament with a purpose

The Rugby World Cup 2023 is not only a showcase of the best rugby talent in the world, but also a platform for social and environmental change. The organizers of France 2023 have set ambitious goals to make the tournament the most sustainable and inclusive ever. Some of their initiatives include:

– Reducing the carbon footprint of the event by 50% compared to previous editions, by using renewable energy sources, optimizing transport and logistics, and offsetting emissions

– Promoting diversity and inclusion through various programs and partnerships, such as Rugby au Coeur (Rugby at Heart), which supports social integration through rugby, and Rugby Solidaire (Rugby Solidarity), which supports humanitarian causes around the world

– Supporting local communities and charities through volunteering and fundraising, such as Les Petits Princes (The Little Princes), which fulfills the dreams of hospitalized children, and Les Petits Frères des Pauvres (The Little Brothers of the Poor), which helps isolated seniors

– Enhancing the legacy of rugby in France and around the world, by developing grassroots rugby, supporting emerging nations, and inspiring future generations

France 2023 aims to use the power of rugby to inspire positive change and leave a lasting impact on society.

Portugal: The debutants with a dream

One of the most remarkable stories of the Rugby World Cup 2023 is that of Portugal, who qualified for their first-ever appearance on the global stage. The Portuguese team, nicknamed “Os Lobos” (The Wolves), beat Samoa in a thrilling final qualification match in Dubai, thanks to a last-minute penalty kick by Samuel Marques.

Portugal will face a tough challenge in Pool C, where they will face Wales, Australia, Fiji, and Georgia. However, they are determined to make their mark and prove themselves as worthy contenders. Portugal's captain Tomás Appleton said: “We want to show our rugby DNA, our style of play, our passion, and our pride. We want to make history for Portuguese rugby.”

Portugal has a long rugby tradition dating back to 1926 when they played their first international match against Spain. They have won several European titles and competed in the World Rugby Sevens Series. They have also produced some notable players, such as Pedro Leal, Gonçalo Uva, and David Mateus. Portugal's coach, Patrice Lagisquet, said: “Portugal has a lot of potential and talent. We have a young and ambitious team that wants to learn and improve. We have a dream, and we will fight for it.”

Fiji: Reconnecting with the people and building on domestic success

Fiji is one of the most exciting teams to watch in rugby, with their flair, speed, and skill. The Pacific Island nation has a rich rugby tradition and a loyal fan base. However, Fiji has also faced many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted their preparations and competitions.

To overcome these difficulties, Fiji has appointed a new head coach, Simon Raiwalui, who wants to reconnect the team with the people and build on their domestic success. Raiwalui said: “We want to bring back that connection with the people of Fiji, who love rugby so much. We want to give them something to be proud of and something to cheer for.”

Fiji will also benefit from the recent launch of its first professional team, the Fijian Drua, which will join Super Rugby Pacific in 2023. The Drua will provide more opportunities and exposure for Fijian players and help them prepare for the Rugby World Cup 2023.

Fiji has a proud history in rugby, having won two Olympic gold medals in sevens and reached the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup in 1987 and 2007. They have also produced some of the best players in the world, such as Waisale Serevi, Rupeni Caucaunibuca, and Semi Radradra. Fiji's captain Leone Nakarawa said: “We have a lot of talent and potential in Fiji. We have a lot of passion and pride for our country. We want to show the world what we can do.”

Ireland: Can they break their quarterfinal curse?

Ireland is the undisputed number-one team in the world right now, according to the World Rugby Men's Rankings powered by Capgemini. The Irish team has been dominant in the Six Nations, winning four titles in the last seven years. They have also beaten some of the top teams in the world, including New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.

However, Ireland has never reached the semi-finals of a Rugby World Cup, losing in the quarter-finals in every edition since 1987. This is a record that they desperately want to break in France 2023. Ireland's captain, Johnny Sexton, said: “We have a lot of belief in ourselves, and we have a lot of ambition. We know we have a lot of work to do, but we also know we have a lot of potential.”

Ireland will face South Africa, Scotland, Tonga, and Romania in Pool B, arguably one of the toughest groups in the tournament. They will need to be at their best to progress to the knockout stages and make history. Ireland's coach, Andy Farrell, said: “We have a lot of respect for our opponents, and we know they will challenge us. We have a lot of confidence in our abilities, and we know we can challenge anyone. We have a lot of hunger and desire to achieve something special.”

Ireland has a strong squad with a mix of experience and talent. They have some of the best players in the world, such as Sexton, Conor Murray, James Ryan, and Tadhg Furlong. They also have some exciting young prospects, such as Hugo Keenan, Caelan Doris, and Craig Casey. Ireland's style of play is based on physicality, discipline, and creativity. They can adapt to different situations and opponents.

Ireland's fans are known for their passion and loyalty. They always travel in large numbers to support their team wherever they play. They create a fantastic atmosphere with their songs and chants. They are also respectful and friendly to other fans and cultures. Ireland's fans are an integral part of their team's success.

The Rugby World Cup 2023 is set to be an unforgettable event for rugby fans around the world. With 48 matches across nine venues in France, it will be a celebration of rugby culture and values. Whether you are supporting your team or just enjoying the spectacle, you will be part of a global community that shares a passion for rugby.

If you want to be part of this amazing experience, don't wait any longer. Get your tickets on Seatsnet and get ready for the Rugby World Cup 2023! This is your chance to witness history in the making, as the best teams and players compete for glory on the biggest stage in rugby. Don't miss this opportunity to join the 2023 family and be part of something special!