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Cape Town - World Rugby CEO Brett Gosper says South Africa would be a contender to host the 2019 Rugby World Cup in case Japan loses its rights to host the event.
Media reports last week indicated that South Africa may be asked to be on standby to host the event following a series of setbacks to current hosts Japan.
World Rugby is believed to be worried about the availability of the stadiums after it was recently revealed that the tournament would not be able to use Japan's National Stadium.
Gosper told EWN Sport that the 2019 tournament could be moved to South Africa if Japan does not provide them with assurances by the end of this month that they’ll be able to successfully host it.
Gosper said no ‘formal discussions’ had taken place, but said South Africa would naturally be a contender if Japan is unable to provide the necessary assurances by the end of the month.
Gosper has also mentioned Italy as a possible replacement, but he is optimistic that Japan will be able to meet its obligations.
South Africa hosted the 1995 Rugby World Cup and will also be bidding to host the 2023 event.
