IRFU CEO Philip Browne didn't hide his disappointment as he reacted to the news that Scotland and Wales did not vote for Ireland in the race to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
In London this afternoon, it was announced that France will host the tournament in six years' time, beating both Ireland and South Africa in the final bid process.
Speaking to Off The Ball's Neil Treacy, Browne discussed the fact that neighbouring associations Scotland and Wales did not vote for the Irish bid.
"Listen, we were very disappointed that Scotland and Wales didn't support us. Very disappointed indeed," he said.
"I think Scotland said that they were consistent in that they were going to vote for the bid that produced the greatest amount of money and Gareth Davies was obviously part of the evaluation process and I think the Welsh union felt duty bound and honour bound to support Gareth.
"But that damaged us significantly."
Browne added that "every union has its own objectives and its own strategies and that was Scotland's."
Brian O'Driscoll also shared his thoughts on today's announcement as Ireland missed out:
It was disappointment for #Ireland2023 and South Africa as France won the right to host the 2023 @rugbyworldcup @BrianODriscoll shared his thoughts to @neil_treacy at the announcement in London #OTB pic.twitter.com/PJUwjL1ji3
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) November 15, 2017
