The decision sent a shock wave throughout the rugby fraternity considering South Africa was named as the preferred host nation for the tournament by an independent organisation that evaluated the bids of South Africa, Ireland and France.

Despite the obvious disappointment, SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux says they put their best work into the bid and even though it did not go their way, they will try again for 2027.

"We are a proud country and we want to showcase our country to the rest of the world not to mention our fantastic track record in terms of delivering major events."

Roux added: "We will try again. We have to do it, not only for ourselves but for our union and everyone else in South Africa that is so bitterly disappointed at the moment."

Although questions surrounding the reason for South Africa's loss remains unanswered, one thing is for sure, the Springboks now have all the motivation they need to beat France in this coming weekend's test at the Stade de France.