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The International Rugby Board (IRB) has confirmed that eight Unions have all expressed a formal interest to host Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013.

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong, Russia, Scotland and USA have put initial applications in to host the global showcase event.

The strong level of tender interest is another significant boost for Rugby Sevens and coincides at a time when the sport is receiving much attention following the International Olympic Committee's decision to include the sport in the Olympic Games, starting from 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.

The 2013 tournament is expected to be the last staged RWC Sevens, with the IRB claiming in its 2016 campaign that they would be prepared to sacrifice the event, in order to confirm Olympic Rugby as the pinnacle of Sevens.

The last RWC Sevens was claimed by 80-1 outsiders Wales earlier this year in Dubai, while Australia lifted the inaugural women's title. Scotland, Hong Kong and Argentina have also hosted the World Cup since its inception back in 1993.

"The International Rugby Board is delighted with the phenomenal level of interest in hosting Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013," said Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset.

"At a time when we look forward to the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, such a strong level of interest from countries across five continents clearly highlights the global prestige of a tournament that has grown to become a major event on the global sporting calendar," added Lapasset.

Tendering Unions for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013 have been asked to follow the same format as the 2009 tournament with 24 men's and 16 women's teams competing over two or three days.

RWCL has also recommended that tenders maintain the blend of two pitches within one city, ideally in th same location.

Unions have until December 15, 2009 to formally confirm that they will tender for the tournament. The Host Union for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013 will be selected by the IRB Council at its May 2010 meeting.