Rugby Sevens, a faster and simpler version of the traditional 15-a-side rugby, has surged in popularity and influence over recent years.
With its inclusion in the Olympics, a string of high-profile successes, and the influence of cross-code players like Antoine Dupont, Sevens is shaping the future of rugby in unprecedented ways.
The HSBC Rugby SVNS tournament has experienced significant success, emerging as a premier event in the rugby calendar. As well as Cape Town, the 2024 series featured stops in iconic cities such as Dubai, Perth, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Singapore, culminating in a grand finale in Madrid.
In the final, France achieved an historic victory over favourites Argentina in Madrid to win the men's title. However, France were not so lucky in the women’s final, and they were beaten by Australia for the gold.
The series’ innovative format, which includes a climactic final and festive atmosphere, has enhanced the global reach and popularity of Rugby Sevens, attracting diverse audiences and showcasing top-tier rugby talent.
The integration of Rugby Sevens with the traditional 15s calendar presents both challenges and opportunities. The World Rugby Council's recent approval of a historic reform to the global rugby calendar, starting in 2026, aims to address these challenges by aligning international and domestic schedules.
This includes the introduction of dedicated global calendars for both men’s and women’s rugby, defined release periods for international duties, and new global competitions.
The synergy between Sevens and 15s formats is mutually beneficial, allowing Sevens to serve as a development ground for young talent while established 15s players enhance the quality of Sevens.
Antoine Dupont, the celebrated French scrum-half, has recently made a significant impact in Sevens. Known for his agility, speed, and innovative play, Dupont has brought a new level of excitement and skill to the Sevens format.
His transition has been immediately felt by the French Sevens team, including helping them secure their first Sevens tournament win in 19 years at the Los Angeles edition, and later contributing to their victory in the Madrid Grand Final.
Dupont's presence in Sevens has not only boosted the performance of the French team but also increased the sport's visibility and appeal. His ability to draw crowds and inspire both teammates and fans highlights the positive influence of integrating star 15s players into Sevens.
This move is seen as a strategic advantage, especially with the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, where France is now considered a strong contender for the gold medal.
The upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics presents another opportunity for Sevens to captivate a global audience. With rugby's history in France and the growing popularity of the sport, the Paris Games are expected to elevate Sevens to new heights.
The Olympic exposure is crucial for the sport’s growth, providing a platform for emerging nations to showcase their talent and for established rugby nations to experiment and innovate.
The future of rugby lies in its ability to adapt and evolve, and Sevens is at the forefront of this transformation. Its fast-paced, high-scoring nature aligns with contemporary sporting trends, appealing to younger audiences and fitting well within modern broadcast formats.
Through its recent tournament successes, the influence of players like Antoine Dupont, and the global platform of the Olympics, Sevens is carving out a vital and vibrant place within the rugby world. As it continues to grow and integrate with traditional 15s, the future looks bright for both codes of this sport.
