Rugby World Cup 2019 kicks off in Japan in less than a year, as Asia gets set to host the tournament for the first time. A new version of World in Union, the official anthem, has now been released featuring Japanese artist Kiyoe Yoshioka.
World in Union was first performed at Rugby World Cup 1991 in England and has featured at every tournament since, typically performed by a well-known artist or group from the tournament’s host country.
It has been sung in a variety of musical styles from classical opera to traditional South African male vocal ensemble, and recorded in numerous languages including English, French, Welsh, Maori and Japanese.
Kiyoe Yoshioka said: "As a Japanese artist, it is a great honour to perform the official theme song for the first Rugby World Cup to be held in both Japan and Asia. World in Union is such a powerful and inspiring song and I have really enjoyed working with the music and lyrics, giving them what I hope is a unique, Japanese interpretation.
"I’m now looking forward with great anticipation to the start of the tournament. World in Union captures the spirit of global friendship and respect that rugby epitomises. I’m happy to be able to help spread this wonderful message throughout Japan and to the world."
An official Rugby World Cup 2019 promotional video was released today, featuring Yoshioka's audio.
The latest opportunity to purchase tickets is currently open with the General Public Ticket Ballot running until 12 November 2018. For information on Rugby World Cup 2019 tickets visit www.rugbyworldcup.com/tickets.