Host Broadcast Services (HBS) is delighted to have been appointed by Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) as Host Broadcaster for Rugby World Cup France 2023. Having worked with RWCL as part of the successful broadcast of Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan, the continuation of this relationship allows for a next step together in enhancing broadcast coverage of the sport’s showcase event.
Rugby World Cup’s tenth edition will take place in France from 8 September to 28 October 2023 and will also mark the 200th anniversary of the invention of the sport by William Webb Ellis.
HBS’ role is to deliver a full ‘turn-key’ host broadcast, including overall project management, the development of a production plan for the event in partnership with RWCL, provision of broadcast and technical equipment as well as production and technical staff, broadcast venue management, design and operation of an International Broadcast Centre (IBC), satellite distribution, digital services, servicing to Rights Holding Broadcasters (RHBs) plus all support services required for the delivery of the HB project.
HBS will also provide the full host broadcast for Rugby World Cup New Zealand 2021, playing in 2022 from 8 October to 12 November. “We are delighted to have been trusted by RWCL once again for the delivery of their major events and look forward to delivering Rugby World Cups in New Zealand and in France,” said Dan Miodownik, HBS CEO. “Such landmark events, in the heartlands of the sport, are great opportunities to work closely with RWCL to present a comprehensive and engaging product to their rights holders and, in turn, audiences around the world.”
Planning for the projects look to utilise state-of-the-art remote production technologies, where practical, and to lower the carbon footprint through effective local production solutions, in line with World Rugby’s sustainability strategy.
World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin said: “We are thrilled to renew our strong collaboration with HBS to provide state-of-the-art broadcast coverage of our showcase tournaments. Millions of fans worldwide will watch Rugby World Cups 2021 and 2023 thanks to HBS’s delivery and they will engage with rugby’s biggest event like never before through exciting broadcast innovations, all delivered with sustainability and efficiency in mind.”
“We are particularly excited about HBS’s plans for Rugby World Cup 2021, playing in 2022, and the opportunity to showcase the pinnacle of women’s elite rugby to new audiences via HBS’ broadcast expertise for the first time. The women’s game – from the pitch to the boardroom – is a major growth focus for us, and we are very much committed to harness the incredible energy of New Zealand to inspire more women and girls to join the rugby family.”
About HBS
Founded in 1999, Host Broadcast Services (HBS) was originally established with the core mandate of being the Host Broadcaster (HB) for the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™; the organisation has since developed as a renowned host broadcast expert.
HBS offers expertise and experience in project managing the delivery of the most prestigious sports events around the world. The company has always pushed to reduce the broadcasting footprint, allowing organisers and broadcasters to optimise both venue resources and media rights with flawless reliability.
HBS is based in Switzerland and has its planning headquarters in France (Paris/Boulogne).