The definitions of Tiers 1 and 2 are also set to be rebranded. They will become known as Established Nations and Emerging Nations.
Japan set to become a Tier 1 Nation
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Japan set to become a Tier 1 Nation
Japan are set to become a Tier One Nation according to a report by Japanese publication Nikkei.com.
According to the report by the Nikkei, Bill Beaumont has made a promise to the Japan Rugby Association to make Japan a Tier One Nation.
This would be the first time an Asian country will become a Tier 1 Nation and it would come with benefits such as favourable test matches and a better allocation of funds.
The report has surfaced after Beaumont was re-elected as World Rugby Chairman after beating Agustin Pichot 28-23 in the voting with Japan allocating their two votes to the Englishman.
For Japan this is to represent a turning point, akin to when Argentina received World Rugby backing after RWC 2007 for a place in the Tri Nations.
In being elevated to Tier 1 status, Japan will be the eleventh member of the category. The other ten are those involved in the Six Nations and Rugby Championship tournaments. They are Argentina, Australia, England, France, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, South Africa, Scotland and Wales.
