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ugby Australia chairman, Hamish McLennan has announced two further appointments to the Rugby World Cup 2027 Bid Advisory Board.

Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) president, John Coates, who was just last week elected International Olympic Committee (IOC) vice president for the second time, and former Wallaby, Gary Ella, join the Advisory Board as preparations continue for the Australian bid to host the 2027 competition.

“John and Gary are two terrific additions to the Advisory Board, and they join an already formidable team, as we begin to develop a bid that delivers significant return to the Australian economy as well as World Rugby,” McLennan said.

“John has a storied history in facilitating major events across the globe and has a professional network that is second to none.

“John is one of Australia’s top sporting administrators globally and with his re-appointment as vice president of the Olympic movement, he knows what it takes for Australia to succeed at this level.

“John’s experience as senior vice president of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Bid Committee and as senior vice president of the Organising Committee (SOCOG) was crucial in winning and delivering the Sydney Games.

“Gary’s history as a Wallaby needs no introduction but his work with the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development team and the Classic Wallabies has helped secure significant programs for Rugby Australia to inspire and engage First Nations people to our game,” he said,

Rugby World Cup 2027 Bid Advisory Board chairman, Rod Eddington, said he is happy to welcome the two new additions to the board.

“I’m delighted to welcome John and Gary to the Advisory Board as we prepare a compelling bid to bring this tournament to Australia,” Eddington said.

“This is an exciting opportunity, not only for rugby here in Australia, but to provide economic stimulus to the country, particularly as we continue to rebuild from the financial impact of COVID-19,” he said.

AOC president and IOC vice president, John Coates, said the World Cup in 2027 would be an unmissable opportunity for the whole of Australia.

“I’m honoured to have been asked to join the Advisory Board and thank Hamish and Rod for their consideration,” Coates said.

“The Rugby World Cup is one of the world’s major sporting events on the global calendar and the positive effect it would have on Australia would be immeasurable.

“This bid is a terrific opportunity to capture the hearts and minds of Australians young and old while also showcasing our incredible country to the rest of the world,” he said.

The announcement comes after reports the 2019 edition of the Rugby World Cup in Japan managed to provide over $7.5 billion in economic output, attract more than 240,000 international visitors, and become the most economically successful Rugby World Cup ever.