Public-service broadcaster RTE remains in contention with pay-television broadcaster Setanta Sports and commercial broadcaster TV3 for the Irish television rights to the 2015 Rugby World Cup, according to the Irish Times.
Reports last week suggested TV3 had secured the rights to the tournament but the Irish Times said this is incorrect, with RTE sources telling the newspaper that they remain under consideration for the contract.
The International Rugby Board, which operates the international rugby union tournament, is expected to make a decision over the rights in the next two weeks.
The Irish Times added that RTE, TV3 and Setanta are currently bidding against pay-television broadcaster BSkyB for the rights to the All-Ireland hurling and football series, a factor that could have an impact upon their Rugby World Cup bids.
The 2003 and 2011 World Cups were shared by RTE and Setanta, with TV3 joining the latter in airing the 2007 edition.