In a significant development for rugby in the Pacific, the Solomon Islands Government, in collaboration with Oceania Rugby and the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation, has announced that Honiara will host the 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s tournament on December 7th and 8th.
This event marks the first instance that the region’s premier rugby tournament will take place outside of traditional host nations, including Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa. This decision follows the successful staging of the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara.
With the backing of the national government, the Solomon Islands Rugby Union is set to organize the esteemed tournament, reflecting the country’s growing recognition within the regional sporting arena.
The tournament will attract elite rugby players from across the Pacific and beyond and will also serve as an important qualification event for international competitions, providing two men’s teams and one women’s team the opportunity to secure places in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.
Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, expressed his pride in securing such a major international event, emphasizing the government’s commitment to making it a successful and memorable occasion. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with Oceania Rugby to foster and strengthen relationships within the region.
Oceania Rugby President Richard Sapias acknowledged the significance of hosting the tournament in new locations like the Solomon Islands, expressing gratitude to the government for its vision in bringing the Oceania Rugby 7s to Honiara. He emphasized the potential of this partnership to inspire future generations of rugby players throughout the Pacific.
Oceania Rugby General Manager Frank Puletua celebrated the historical significance of hosting the tournament in the Solomon Islands, where sport can foster unity among nations that once faced conflicts. He remarked that this event not only celebrates rugby but also honors the region’s shared history and showcases the strength of Pacific communities through rugby.
The President of the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Executive Board, Hon. George Temahua, conveyed his enthusiasm for the tournament and its importance for the local rugby community. He referred to the event as a dream realized for Solomon Islands Rugby, presenting an opportunity for local players and fans to shine on an international stage while thanking the government for its ongoing support of rugby development.
The upcoming 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s will feature teams from across the region competing for a chance to qualify for the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series. This tournament is anticipated to significantly enhance the visibility of rugby in the Pacific and solidify the Solomon Islands’ position in the international sports arena.
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