The 2013 Lions winning captain said, "It would be great to see the 2016 FISU World Championships bring a major rugby competition to Swansea - my hometown.

"Wales is often described as the 'Spiritual Home of Rugby' and having travelled the globe on international duty and as a British and Irish Lions player, nowhere in the world compares to Wales when it comes to passion, knowledge and dedication."

Britain has seen much success in the University World Championship since its inauguration in 2005 in Beijing, winning a medal in each of the last five events, including gold at both the men's and women's events in Brive-la-Gaillarde, France.

The 2016 event would be hosted at the Swansea University Singleton Park Campus, utilising its accommodation, catering and social facilities alongside the world-class sports facilities to create a comprehensive Championship Village.

Earlier this year Wales launched a bid to host the 2018 Rugby World Cup Sevens tournament.

If successful the competition will be held at Swansea University Singleton Park Campus























Professor Noel Thompson, Pro Vice Chancellor at Swansea University said: "Hosting the 2016 FISU World University Championships would be a privilege for Wales and Swansea.

"High level rugby competition is a priority for the University and the nation and these Championships would reinforce this commitment and sit naturally alongside the recently announced aspiration to host the 2018 Rugby Sevens World Cup.

"With outstanding facilities and an integrated Championship site, Swansea University will deliver a competitor focussed Championships of which Wales, the UK and FISU can be proud."

Next year's event is due to take place in Vitória, Brazil.

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