Sydney secures long term deal for rugby sevens world series

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has announced that Sydney will be the home of the Australian leg of the Sevens World Series for the next four years from the 2015/16 season.

Set to take place at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, the dates of the event to be confirmed by World Rugby at the end of the month.

Currently in its 16th season, the Sevens World Series consists of nine tournaments held around the world, in which national Sevens teams compete for World Series points at each round. Fast-paced and thrilling, the inaugural Sydney Sevens will take place just a matter of months before Rugby Sevens makes its debut at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Commenting on Sydney's hosting, World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset stated "with excitement increasing ahead of Rio 2016, the World Rugby Sevens Series has been going from strength to strength, proving a hit with fans, broadcasters and sponsors around the globe with its winning blend of compelling and competitive action, global destinations and festival atmosphere.

“Sydney is one of the world’s iconic cities, a sports-mad city with an exceptional record of attracting and hosting major events like Rugby World Cup and the Olympic Games.

"Sydney’s inclusion within a stellar Series hosting line-up is exciting for players and fans and underscores the strength of the rugby sevens brand in the global sporting marketplace.

“I have no doubt that the Sydney Sevens will inspire new audiences and participants and contribute to the continued strong growth of the game in Australia and around the world.”

ARU Chief Executive Bill Pulver added "we are thrilled to be able to bring Rugby Sevens to Sydney. We truly believe that Sydney has the potential to match the excitement surrounding tournaments like Hong Kong, Twickenham and Wellington in terms of event experience and crowd numbers.

“Growing Rugby, particularly the Sevens format of our game, is critical to our long-term objectives as we strive to ignite passion in the next generation of players and fans. Globally, the game is in an exciting spot with Rugby Sevens part of the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 program.”

The NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, submitted the successful bid to the ARU.

Fans can sign up for Sydney Sevens ticket alerts via www.Sydney7s.com.au

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