Rugby World Cup 2011 Touted as “Outstanding Success” by RWC Chairman

Rugby World Cup 2011 has been touted as an “exceptional event” and an “outstanding success” by Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset after it reached all of its ticketing, sponsorship and broadcast goals.

The Frenchman also stated that the tournament has achieved the key goals of furthering the profile of Rugby and New Zealand around the world.

New Zealand’s 8-7 victory over France in the Rugby World Cup 2011 Final brought down the curtain on a tournament that achieved all ticketing, sponsorship and broadcast targets as over 100,000 international fans joined New Zealanders in attending matches at Rugby’s showcase event.

Lapasset said: “New Zealand 2011 will be remembered as an exceptional Rugby World Cup. It has been a tournament where New Zealand’s rich culture and heritage has gone hand in hand with Rugby’s tradition and values.”

“New Zealanders should be proud of their event. They made it special by embracing the tournament the length and breadth of the country, welcoming all 20 teams and 100,000 international visitors with open arms. It was quite remarkable.”

An independent study commissioned by MasterCard during the tournament has indicated that the event is due to deliver NZ$750 million ($602.7m) in direct economic benefits for New Zealand and over NZD$2 billion ($1.6bn) long-term benefits.

“The significant economic benefits demonstrate the true value of Rugby World Cup to a host nation, its Government, tourism and business sectors. The great thing about New Zealand 2011 is that there will be no ‘white elephants’. The legacy is clear and long lasting,” he added.

The Tournament will also deliver the financial platform for the International Rugby Board to continue to invest funds that are vital to the growth and prosperity of Rugby worldwide.

Revenues from the Rugby World Cup 2011 commercial programme, including broadcast, sponsorship and travel and hospitality will deliver an estimated £80 million net surplus boost to the Game.

Rugby World Cup accounts for 95% of the IRB’s revenues. In the 2009-2012 investment cycle the global governing body is investing £150 million ($238m) to develop and grow the Game around the world in order that future Rugby World Cups are more competitive and that more men, women and children can play the Game.