That was the unequivocal message from Spanish Rugby Vice President Gabriel Sáez when discussing Spain´s Rugby World Cup 2035 hosting bid, held in the Consejo Superior de Deportes in Madrid. When asked about Spain´s ambitions to host the tournament, Gabriel stressed that not only does the bid have government support, but it offered Rugby Union a chance to find a new audience in an increasingly rigid sports market.
“We are a country of 50 million inhabitants, we have the perfect infrastructure , incredible stadiums and man, we know how to organise events. ” Gabriel also mentioned the financial return to World Rugby that would be generated but was keen to stress “we can organise an incredible experience for the fan, with unforgettable memories.”
“Spain is a top country in team sports. Why not in Rugby?” Gabriel Sáez
However, Spain often find their Rugby World Cup 2035 bid overlooked in favour of other nations (Argentina / Japan) who have the fortune of being in the anglosphere conversation thanks their exposure to regular high profile internationals. So, how can the Spanish Rugby Federation (FER) combat this ?
Gabriel is clear about the ambition for Spanish Rugby to move into the conversation of Tier 1 nations. “Our sevens teams have shown what a Spanish team can do when they have the eco system of training and competitiveness. So yes from the sport perspective we are going to be a very competitive team in 35, as well in 27 and 31, as we were last winter against Fiji.”
“At the same time, this World Cup will help transform the ecosystem of Spanish Rugby. We have a very ambitious high performance programme. So the difference between Japan and Argentina, with all respect to them, is this project is going transform Spanish Rugby and add to the stage a big country so Rugby expands.”
Photo used with permission of FER.
Listen to the full interview below.
