The Latest Breaking News on How South Africa rose to the top of world rugby

Les Bleus defeated three-time Webb-Ellis Cup winners the All Blacks convincingly Friday evening at a sold-out Stade de France. Second-half tries by winger Damian Penaud and replacement fullback Melvyn Jaminet helped seal France's historic 27-13 victory.

France 27-13 New Zealand: A raucous Stade de France crowd delivered an incredible atmosphere and Les Bleus repaid them with a win, albeit not in hugely convincing style

From humble beginnings, the planet’s best player is hoping to inspire Les Bleus to global glory in front of a demanding fanbase

Talismanic Les Bleus captain insists the hosts have a “responsibility to do something great” as All Blacks blockbuster kicks off tournament

The opening match of the tournament sees the hosts clash against favourites New Zealand

Hosts France launch their quest for a first World Cup trophy against three-time champions New Zealand on Friday night. Around 80,000 fans are expected at the Stade de France for a blockbuster start to the 10th World Cup competition and seven weeks of action featuring the planet's best rugby players.

ITV will show the Rugby World Cup in the UK

Ireland, France, South Africa and New Zealand shape as the tournament favourites – but how far down our rankings are England and Wales after a difficult 2023 so far?

The tournament can serve to balm the sport’s soul, writes Harry Latham-Coyle, with the action on the pitch distracting from testing times off it