France, Ireland and South Africa say they have submitted formal bids to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Final bid papers had to be delivered by Thursday to World Rugby. The winning bid will be announced in November.

France hosted in 2007 and put on games at the 1991 and 1999 tournaments.

South Africa last staged the event in 1995.

Ireland have never been the sole host but had also staged games in 1991 and 1999.

French bidders say they would utilise nine stadiums built or renovated for last year’s European soccer championship.

Ireland aim to hold games in the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland.

South Africa, who have failed in three successive bids, would stage the final at Soccer City in Johannesburg, the showpiece venue for the 2010 soccer World Cup.