Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales are considering a joint bid to host the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
World Rugby has opened the bidding process for the 2027 and 2031 tournaments.
The English Rugby Football Union has reportedly been considering a bid for some time. However, the prospect of a joint bid comes due to the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a statement issued on Monday, World Rugby said that “multi-nation bids are being welcomed”.
An RFU spokesperson said: “The four rugby unions of the UK and Ireland are considering the merits of a joint bid to host the [2031]Rugby World Cup. Collective discussions with government partners across the UK and Ireland have not yet taken place and a decision on whether to bid has not yet been made.”
Ireland previously bid for the 2023 World Cup but France's bid was successful.
