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Russia’s involvement in RWC 2023 is in doubt. The country was handed a four-year ban from all major sporting events by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Thus far Russia has been blocked from competing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The ban prohibits the use of the Russia flag and anthem at any major events in the four-year period. Notwithstanding, athletes who can prove they are untainted by the doping scandal will be able to compete under a neutral flag.
The binding decision from WADA means that Russia cannot compete at any competition, including RWC 2023, though they are free to compete in qualifiers and at RWC 2023 but not as Russia. They would have to be representing a neutral party. However, RWC rules stipulate that to compete in RWC qualifiers and at a RWC itself one must be a RWC member. Russia’s place in RWC 2023 is thereby in serious doubt.
Russia competed at RWC 2019, doing so in Pool A. The Bears faced Japan in the tournament opener before playing subsequent matches against Samoa, Ireland, and Scotland. It was Russia’s second RWC following RWC 2011 in New Zealand.
Russia’s place at RWC 2023 was determined following a long process which saw Romania disqualified after qualifying and Spain’s RWC qualifying period ending early. Both were found guilty of having breached player eligibility laws. The tough position from World Rugby set a precedent which furthers reason to conclude that Russia’s involvement in RWC 2023 qualifiers is in doubt.
