World Rugby eyes Sevens 'coming of age' at Paris Olympics

23 Jul 2024 | AFP

@Blitzboks "X"

The Paris Olympics will be a "coming of age" moment for Rugby Sevens, World Rugby's chief executive said Tuesday, on the eve of a tournament starring global legend Antoine Dupont.

After debuting at the Rio Games in 2016 and with the Tokyo Olympics hamstrung by Covid, Paris 2024 is a "golden opportunity to grow our share of the global audience," said Alan Gilpin.

"We really believe that this is the Olympics where Rugby Sevens comes of age," he told reporters.

"There has never been a greater spotlight on the sport," he added.

The Rugby Sevens kicks off Wednesday at the Stade de France, two days ahead of the opening ceremony, with around 550,000 fans expected to attend over six days.

Arguably the world's best 15-a-side player, France's Dupont will be the biggest draw after controversially pulling out of the Six Nations to focus on Olympic glory.

Rugby Sevens is a fast-paced, dynamic version of the game and players will be "among the fittest, fastest, and strongest" athletes at the Olympics, added Gilpin.

Off the pitch, Sevens tournaments are known for a festive atmosphere, with raucous fans often donning fancy dress.

"I think it's going to be the place to be... It's going to be fast, furious, and fun," said Aurelie Merle, sporting director at the Paris 2024 organising committee.

France will face a stiff test in their Pool C match on Thursday against double Olympic champions Fiji, who have suffered a slump in form by their high standards.

Also in the mix in the men's competition will be New Zealand and Argentina, who won silver and bronze respectively in Tokyo, plus traditional rugby powers Australia, South Africa, and Ireland.

The South African sevens rugby team qualified for the Paris Olympic Games exactly a month ago.