The French official was axed in October after allegations of "deep social malaise" within the organisation and that he presided over a "management by terror".

His sacking was confirmed at an extraordinary meeting of the France 2023 Board of Directors and backed by the French Rugby Federation, French National Olympic and Sports Committee and the country's Government.

But Atcher claims that he is "living an injustice" and challenged his breach of contract at the industrial tribunal.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, the Labour Court dismissed Atcher of all his main demands, including the payment of a bonus of around €100,000 (£90,000/$110,000).

It is reported that the Labour Court ruled that there was no reason to pay the money but his lawyers have told AFP that a decision on the bonus had been deferred to a later date.

"The payment of a provision equal to the amount of his intervention bonus, which does not raise any dispute in our option, and the production of various documents that the GIP [Groupement d’Interet Public France 2023] refuses to pass on to him since his conservatory layoff," said Atcher’s lawyers.

It is also reported by L’Equipe that Atcher is looking to request compensation which is said to be seven times his annual salary.

Atcher is under a preliminary investigation by the Paris prosecutor's office for moral harassment.

Speaking to Midi Olympique, 67-year-old Atcher defended himself, saying he had a "divisive personality".

"I’m not saying that I’m demanding, but very demanding," said Atcher.

"I'm not going to be in denial, I'm like that.

"But this requirement has always been set to allow everyone to grow.

"Whether I'm not perfect, whether there are things wrong with my management, my methods or my relationship with others, whether there are people who like me or not, that's logic."

Atcher had been in charge of the Rugby World Cup since 2018 and had previously led the Organising Committee for the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

"I cannot agree to leave the world of rugby with this image," added Atcher.

"It's not me, I've never been convicted in my entire life.

"My honour is my driving force.

"I live an injustice."

Atcher was succeeded in the post by Julien Collette, formerly an executive in the hotel and entertainment industries.

Collette had been interim chief executive while Atcher was suspended in August for what were described as "alarming managerial practices".