The result of World Rugby's chairmanship election could be announced as soon as Saturday, according to reports.
Former England captain Sir Bill Beaumont - who has occupied the role as chairman of rugby union's global governing body since 2016 - is being challenged in his quest to secure another four-year stint in charge by former vice-chair Agustin Pichot, with voting closing on Thursday evening.
The winner of the race was not expected to be communicated until May 12, but the BBC reported on Friday night that a majority has been reached after the first round of voting and that Beaumont and Pichot have both agreed to bring the announcement forward after an extremely close race.
It is now thought that the result could come as early as Saturday, after ratification by the World Rugby council.
A candidate requires 26 votes to earn a majority, with each of World Rugby's 51 council members - minus the incumbent chairman - receiving a vote.
