ICANN has released statistics for its Registry Service Provider Evaluation Program (RSP) designed to streamline applications for new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) by allowing applicants to select a backend registry service provider approved by ICANN.
While RSP approval is still pending, a significant number of would-be backend RSPs have already dropped out of the qualification race. According to Domain Incite, the deadline for submitting a complete package of documents for the RSP program was May 20 but 19 companies failed to submit it in time.
As a result, there are only 46 candidates left competing for the RSP program. Industry experts had roughly the same expectations for the turnout. No applications have been officially approved yet but it is reported that 15 candidates have already submitted complete documentation. The others are finalizing their bids.
Providers from Europe lead the geographic competition with 17 applications. The Asia-Pacific Region follows with 15 submissions, while North America accounts for 12. Only one application each comes from Africa and the Latin America and Caribbean region.
