In a significant development for rugby in the Pacific, the government of the Solomon Islands, in collaboration with Oceania Rugby and the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation, has announced that the 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s tournament will take place in Honiara on December 7 and 8.
This marks the first occasion that the premier rugby event will be held outside traditional venues like Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa. The decision follows the success of the 2023 Pacific Games hosted in Honiara.
The tournament, backed by the national government, signifies the Solomon Islands’ growing recognition within the regional sporting landscape. Elite rugby teams from around the Pacific and further afield will participate, with the event acting as a key qualification opportunity for global competitions. Two men’s teams and one women’s team will earn places in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele expressed pride in this announcement, highlighting the significance of hosting such an impactful international event.
“The Solomon Islands Government is honored to partner with Oceania Rugby to bring this event to Honiara in December 2024. The government is committed to ensuring this is a successful and memorable tournament. We are proud to be part of the Oceania family and look forward to nurturing this relationship with Oceania Rugby,” said Prime Minister Manele.
Oceania Rugby President Richard Sapias emphasized the importance of expanding the tournament’s reach to new host nations such as the Solomon Islands. He commended the government for its vision and commitment to investing in rugby’s growth in the region.
“Thanks to the Solomon Islands Government for their extraordinary vision in hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s in Honiara. Their dedication to sport reflects a strong commitment to developing rugby within the Oceania region. This partnership demonstrates their leadership, and we eagerly anticipate how this event will motivate future Pacific rugby players,” stated Sapias.
Frank Puletua, General Manager of Oceania Rugby, praised the Solomon Islands’ dedication to sporting excellence and the historical significance of the event.
“Bringing teams to the Solomon Islands, a place of deep historical importance, is truly special. This location, once marked by conflict, now symbolizes unity through sport. Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s is not just about celebrating the game but also acknowledges our shared history and the strength of our region through rugby 7s—a sport that brings us all together,” said Puletua.
Honorable George Temahua, President of the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Executive Board, expressed enthusiasm for the tournament’s potential impact on the local rugby community.
“Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s is a dream come true for Solomon Islands Rugby. This is a proud moment for our nation, a unique opportunity for our players, fans, and the country as a whole. We are prepared to welcome the Pacific rugby family to Honiara and demonstrate our capability to host such a significant event. We sincerely thank the Solomon Islands Government for their dedication to the growth of rugby in our nation. We believe this will inspire a new generation of rugby talent in the Solomon Islands,” said Temahua.
The 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s, scheduled for December 7-8, will feature teams from throughout the region competing for spots in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series. The tournament’s significance is amplified as it will provide two men’s teams and one women’s team the chance to showcase their abilities on a global stage, further solidifying the Solomon Islands’ role in international rugby.
Leave a comment