Hong Kong Sevens 2024: World Rugby chief Alan Gilpin says ‘more work to do’ before move to Kai Tak in 2025 is confirmed
- He says there is ‘a lot of confidence’ in talks about the move in 2025 for the tournament, which is ‘definitely back’
- Also under review is the series format, which this year was in line with the Olympics but could change for next year’s event
World Rugby chief Alan Gilpin said Hong Kong, “the jewel in the sevens crown”, was “definitely back” following a heady three days on and off the field.
A large slice of the narrative around this year’s 47th edition has centred on the tournament saying goodbye to its celebrated Hong Kong Stadium home.
However, the sport’s CEO said there was “more work to do” before the global governing body could “fully confirm” the proposed 2025 move to Kai Tak Sports Park.
“We have been talking about Kai Tak for a few years, working with the local government and the Hong Kong, China union,” he said.
“I think there is a lot of confidence around it … we all want to [confirm the 2025 plans] quickly so the dates and the stadium are locked in, and the fans can start to understand how to go about accessing [the tournament].”
Gilpin oversaw the introduction of a revamped elite sevens series for 2023-24. The ongoing HSBC SVNS features the world’s best 12 teams, in the men’s and women’s games – playing eight tournaments around the globe.
