Rugby Sevens is primed to take centre stage as the Olympic Games Paris 2024 launches with this thrilling sport.
The tournament will make its grand debut at the Stade de France, with a full house of 69,000 spectators expected to witness the opening games on Wednesday, July 24.
Captains from 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams convened at the Olympic Village on Monday, adding to the buzz surrounding what is anticipated to be the most exhilarating Rugby Sevens event ever.
Following its initial appearance at Rio 2016 and the Covid-impacted Tokyo 2020, the sport is set to showcase its full potential in Paris.
With over 550,000 fans expected to attend the eight competition sessions at Stade de France, Rugby Sevens is one of the most sought-after events at the Paris Games.
The action is anticipated to captivate a global television audience numbering in the millions.
The men’s tournament kicks off with Australia facing Samoa at 15:30 CET (GMT+2) on July 24. Following this, hosts France, inspired by star player Antoine Dupont, will take on the USA at 16:30, while double Olympic champions Fiji will meet Uruguay at 17:00.
The women’s tournament begins on July 28 with Ireland and Great Britain leading the charge at 15:30, followed by matches featuring reigning champions New Zealand and challenger champions China, among others.
Teams will compete in a format where each plays three pool matches. Eight teams will then advance to the quarter-finals, with the semi-finals and medal matches determining the Olympic champions.
Rugby Sevens is expected to be a highlight of Paris 2024, building on the success of the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France.
The Stade de France, which hosted both the opening match and final of the Rugby World Cup, will again serve as the stage for this premier event.
Fiji has previously secured both men’s Olympic gold medals, while five different nations have won the men’s SVNS Series since 2016.
Argentina, winners of the 2024 SVNS league, and France, holders of the inaugural SVNS Grand Final title, exemplify the competitive spirit of the tournament.
Australia and New Zealand have each won one women’s Olympic gold, with France’s silver medal at Tokyo 2020 hinting at strong competition on home soil.
The 24 teams qualified through the HSBC SVNS Series, regional qualifiers, and the World Rugby Sevens Repechage, with Uruguay, Samoa, and Ireland’s women making their Olympic debuts.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont expressed high expectations: “We anticipate a ‘coming of age’ event as rugby sevens kicks off the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France on Wednesday.
The Paris Games are the pinnacle of the biggest-ever sevens season, and the stage is set for a spectacular celebration of our sport.”
Paris 2024 Executive Sports Director Aurelie Merle echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing the event’s significance: “This third appearance of Rugby Sevens at the Olympic Games is a chance to showcase the sport’s thrilling nature and unique fan culture.”
Captains from participating teams are equally excited. France’s Paulin Riva commented on the anticipation: “We feel great and are excited to be the first discipline. The atmosphere at Stade de France will be incredible.”
New Zealand’s Sarah Hirini added: “We’re thrilled to compete at another pinnacle event. Playing in front of large crowds is a significant achievement for our sport.”
Fiji’s Jerry Tuwai, a double Olympic champion, stated: “Our goal is to defend our Olympic gold. It’s emotional to be back, and the crowd’s pressure will push us to deliver.”
Australia’s Charlotte Caslick shared her excitement about the tournament’s start: “We’re eager to compete, and having our families at Stade de France makes it even more special.”
Ireland’s Harry McNulty and USA’s Naya Taper also shared their optimism. McNulty looked forward to the competitive nature of the Games: “We’re ready to kick off the Games and show the excitement of sevens.”
Taper highlighted the significance of the event: “It’s inspiring to compete on such a big stage and strive for a gold medal.”
As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, Rugby Sevens is set to provide a thrilling opening to the Games, with its blend of high-speed action and intense competition promising to captivate audiences worldwide.