The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is gearing up for an exciting event from March 28-30, 2025, to be held at the newly built Kai Tak Stadium. This year, the tournament will attract over 120,000 fans as the world’s top 12 men’s and women’s rugby teams compete for crucial points in the HSBC SVNS standings with only two regular-season rounds left.
In the women’s tournament, reigning Olympic Champions New Zealand will compete in Pool A alongside Brazil, China, and the USA. Pool B features strong teams such as Fiji, France, Great Britain, and Ireland, while Australia, Canada, Japan, and Spain will battle it out in Pool D.
For the men, Argentina, fresh from their recent victory in Vancouver, will challenge Fiji, Ireland, and the USA in Pool A. Pool B includes top contenders like South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Uruguay, while Pool C showcases a matchup between Spain, France, Great Britain, and Kenya.
Team captains recently toured the new venue, expressing enthusiasm about playing in such a state-of-the-art facility. New Zealand women’s captain Sarah Hirini highlighted Hong Kong’s importance as a sevens hub and her team’s dedication to improve as the season progresses. Spain’s Pol Pla expressed pride as he prepares for his 50th Series event, celebrating the unique atmosphere Hong Kong brings to Sevens.
As of now, New Zealand’s women and Argentina’s men lead the SVNS standings after four rounds, intensifying the competition as only the top eight teams will qualify for the HSBC SVNS World Championship in Los Angeles on May 3-4. The contention is fierce, with just four points differentiating the leading men’s teams.
The Hong Kong Sevens has a storied history, having hosted some of rugby’s icons, including Jonah Lomu and Portia Woodman. This year promises a blend of seasoned Olympic medallists and emerging talents, ensuring the tournament will leave a lasting legacy.
The three-day competition will kick off daily at 10:30 AM local time, with finals set for Sunday evening. With a record crowd expected and tickets still available, fans are encouraged to join in this marquee event in the rugby calendar.
In alignment with World Rugby’s commitment to gender equality, each HSBC SVNS event guarantees equal opportunities for men and women. Notably, this tournament will feature an all-female panel of match officials for the women’s competition, further emphasizing the sport’s dedication to inclusivity.
The vibrant atmosphere anticipated at the Hong Kong Sevens not only promises a thrilling weekend but also fosters hope for the future of rugby sevens, highlighting a growing participation and diversity within the sport.
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