Paris – April 9, 2025: The French government and national rugby federation have come under sharp criticism following a damning report by France’s top financial watchdog, which revealed “major failures” in the organization and oversight of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The Court of Audit said on Tuesday that the tournament, despite being a public and sporting success, ended in significant financial losses that have left the French Rugby Federation (FFR) in dire straits.
The report particularly singled out Claude Atcher, the first head of the tournament’s organizing committee, citing mismanagement and poor leadership.
However, the blame extended beyond Atcher to the FFR and government institutions, which, according to the court, failed to exercise proper control over the event’s financial planning and execution.
“Everyone won, except the French organizers,” said Pierre Moscovici, president of the Court of Audit, during a press conference. While the international governing body, World Rugby, recorded the “best financial result in its history,” the FFR is facing losses ranging from €19.2 million to €28.9 million, depending on the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings.
Despite projections that the tournament would generate substantial profits and boost French rugby, the legacy now appears marred by unrealistic commitments, financial miscalculations, and poor governance.
“The financial targets were not met and the legacy resources left behind for rugby are virtually nil,” Moscovici added. The tournament was widely regarded as a success in terms of public engagement and media attention.
Stadiums were filled, the matches were competitive, and the sport enjoyed widespread popularity throughout France during the event. However, the glittering surface hid deep-seated organizational problems that are only now being fully uncovered.
The report revealed that the French government only began to take an active role in the tournament’s management in 2022, after a crisis erupted over Atcher’s management style and he was eventually removed from his position. By then, many financial and operational missteps had already occurred.
Moscovici expressed concern that France lacks a coherent and structured approach when it comes to supporting international sporting events. “The French government does not have a clear, substantiated doctrine for analyzing the conditions under which it provides its support,” he warned.
Looking ahead, the Court of Audit emphasized the need for stronger oversight and more responsible governance, particularly as France prepares to host the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. The court is expected to issue a report in June evaluating the government’s role and management in that event as well.
The fallout from the Rugby World Cup could have lasting implications for the FFR, which now finds itself in a precarious financial position. Critics warn that without swift reforms and clear accountability, future international events hosted by France could face similar issues.
As questions mount about the country’s preparedness for upcoming global tournaments, the government’s handling of the 2023 Rugby World Cup may serve as a cautionary tale in the high-stakes world of international sports management.
