Italian rugby federation (FIR) bosses have officially confirmed their interest in hosting the 2023 World Cup, the first nation to cement their opposition to Ireland.
FIR president Alfredo Gavazzi made the announcement Thursday, having been given the full backing of Italian Olympic Committe (CONI) chiefs.
"In accordance with the rules concerning candidates and having been given the full backing of CONI we would like to formally announce to World Rugby our intention to bid to host the 2023 World Cup," said Gavazzi.
Candidates for what would be the 10th edition of the competition have until May 2015 to formalise their intention to bid. The hosts will be officially announced in May 2017.
In June, Italy will host the under-20 world championships for the second time after the 2011 edition, and Gavazzi feels those experiences, along with an overall growing Italian passion for the game, will lend weight to Italy's bid.
"The growth of rugby in Italy in recent years, our experience of hosting Six Nations games as well as the November Tests - and the experiences of hosting the under-20 world championships in 2011 and next June - are fundamental to our bid," he added.
Ireland gave notice of an intention to apply late last year.
South Africa, the host of the tournament in 1995, and the USA are also expected to ratify their bids in due course, now World Rugby has confirmed the application process.
This year's World Cup, which will feature 20 teams spread over four groups, will be held across 11 cities in England, including Cardiff, from September 18 to October 31.
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