Rugby World Cup 2021 in New Zealand to be postponed

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - World Rugby confirmed Wednesday that the World Cup 2021 in New Zealand is set to be postponed until next year due to a novel coronavirus.

"The recommendation is based on the evolution of the uncertain and challenging global COVID-19 landscape," World Rugby said in a statement.

"It has become clear in recent discussions with key partners including New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Government and participating unions, that, given the scale of the event and the COVID-19-related uncertainties, it is just not possible to deliver the environment for all teams to be the best that they can be on the sport's greatest stage," it added.

The 2021 World Cup was scheduled to be hosted in New Zealand between Sep. 18 and Oct.16.