World Rugby has confirmed that Russia will play in the 2019 World Cup after rejecting appeals from Spain and Romania against breaches of player eligibility in the qualifying process.

An independent disciplinary committee initially launched an investigation into Spain’s controversial loss to Belgium, refereed by Romanian referee Vlad Iordachescu, which saw Romania qualify for the World Cup.

Spain, Romania and Belgium were then found to have breached player eligibility regulations, leading to points deductions and Russia being the beneficiary of the decision.

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Despite both Romania and Spain launching appeals against the decision, it was upheld by an independent appeals commission.

Russia will now join Ireland, Scotland, Japan and the playoff winner in Pool A of the World Cup.

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