The results of the World Rugby elections could be announced as early as Sunday, according to reports out of the UK.
Incumbent chairman Bill Beaumont is running against current vice-chairman Agustin Pichot for the top spot and both have been running campaigns based on change at different levels.
Pichot is a big advocate of the Nations Championship concept that was scuppered by European nations last year and is pushing for more opportunities for Tier Two nations.
Among his manifesto, Beaumont has promised looser eligibility rules that could see more Pacific Island players ,especially, able to return to play for their home nations even if they have been capped for a Tier One side.
Voting in the elections closed on April 30 and World Rugby had planned to reveal the results on May 12.
That process had been criticised publicly by Pichot, who said he would be content with a show of hands vote.
UK media outlets are reporting that one candidate has secured a big margin and the result could be announced as early as Sunday.
Some unions and regions have declared their votes already, with Wales and Rugby Europe declaring their support for Beaumont while Australia, New Zealand and Rugby Asia have publicly backed Pichot.
Frenchman Bernard Laporte is the sole vice-chairman candidate, running alongside Beaumont, while there are seven nominees for the seven spots available in the wider executive committee.
