The World Rugby delegation, including chief executive Brett Gosper and tournament director Alan Gilpin, met with FFR President Bernard Laporte, along with other officials, to discuss the establishment of the Organising Committee.

Confirming key planning milestones and timelines for activities in 2018 and 2019, and establishing communication channels between stakeholders, were also part of the agenda.

For the first time in the history of the Rugby World Cup, provisions including finances, stadia and rights protection obligations were secured prior to the awarding of the tournament.

After the discussions, Gosper said: "We enjoyed two days of highly-productive meetings with our friends and colleagues at the FFR to begin the process of converting a comprehensive, exciting and strong bid into action and start Rugby World Cup 2023 hosting preparations in earnest.

"Global major events, including the Rugby World Cup, cannot be successfully delivered without partnership and a common vision and it is exciting that the FFR's vision and road-map for delivery comes with the full support of the French Government and is fully aligned with our strategic goal to further a strong and sustainable global game for all."

Laporte added: "Less than two months after the World Rugby Council decision to award the hosting rights for Rugby World Cup 2023 to France, we are already hard at work in collaboration with our partners and friends at World Rugby to deliver what we hope will be the best tournament ever."

France, which will host the World Cup in nine cities, saw off competition from South Africa and the Republic of Ireland to win the right to host the tournament. 

This was despite South Africa being named as the recommended option by World Rugby prior to November's vote in London.