Ireland could form part of a joint-bid to host the 2031 Rugby World Cup - according to reports.
The Guardian reports that the Irish, Welsh, Scottish and English unions are weighing up a bid to host the tournament in 10 years' time.
An RFU spokesperson told the Guardian: “The four rugby unions of the UK and Ireland are considering the merits of a joint bid to host the [2031] Rugby World Cup.
"Collective discussions with government partners across the UK and Ireland have not yet taken place and a decision on whether to bid has not yet been made.”
If a joint-bid is launched, the four unions are likely to face stiff competition for the right to host the prestigious tournament, with the USA also expected to launch a bid.
The IRFU previously failed in a costly bid to host the 2023 World Cup, which is to be held in France, with South Africa also missing out on that occasion.
Ireland's bid cost €3.25million and IRFU CEO Philip Browne all but ruled out another solo bid while calling for the selection process to be revamped.
The bidding process has since been overhauled, with World Rugby open to joint-bids for the 2031 tournament.
Ireland last hosted the World Cup along with Wales, Scotland and England in 1991 and also held matches during the 1999 tournament which was principally hosted in Wales, but included games at English, Scottish and Irish venues.
