The Spanish Federation also regards the bid as key to growing the game, with a target of tripling participation to 120,000 grass-roots players by 2035.

“The warmth, openness and desire to share moments with others that characterise our country fit perfectly with the spirit that a Rugby World Cup creates,” said Juan Carlos Martín “Hansen”, the executive president of the RFER.

“Over the past two decades, our commitment to rugby has led to extraordinary progress, and the next nine years could mark a step change for the sport across Spain.

“World Rugby has established this tournament as the pinnacle of our sport, and it is a great honour for Spain to bid to host it.

“Rugby is becoming part of our country’s identity. Working together with World Rugby, we can make Rugby World Cup 2035 a turning point in the global growth of the sport, for the benefit of generations to come.”

Site visits and feasibility assessments by World Rugby are set to take place from December, and a preferred candidate is expected to be identified by late spring/early summer next year. A formal announcement is provisionally expected to take place during the tournament in Australia next autumn.