World Rugby and Rugby Australia has this evening confirmed that the HSBC Sydney Sevens will not take place in 2022.
The decision was taken in line with relevant government and international public health authority advice, and with the health and wellbeing of the community in mind.
The full HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series schedule is due to resume in 2022 however the Hamilton leg, the partner to the Sydney event, will also not go-ahead following consultation with World Rugby, the host unions, and their respective partners.
Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby will continue to consult with World Rugby regarding the establishment of several regional Oceania Sevens tournaments with the support of the Australian government, as preparation for the men's and women's teams ahead of the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2022.
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Andy Marinos said: "It is incredibly disappointing that the Sydney Sevens will not be take place in 2022.
"It has become one of the most exciting events on the World Series calendar, and I want to thank our government partner, Destination NSW and World Rugby for their support and understanding in the matter.
“We will be back in 2023 where we have no doubt the tournament will be another sporting celebration in Sydney," Marinos said.
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “The Olympic Games in Tokyo once again showcased the very best of rugby sevens to a huge global audience as the sport’s fast-paced, action-packed style thrilled fans watching around the globe.
“We now look ahead to the return of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series with upcoming events in Canada and Dubai ahead of what promises to be a very busy and exciting year for the sport in 2022 with the Series followed by the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and climaxing with Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town.
“The truly global nature of the Series has made it difficult to plan with certainty in this uniquely challenging time as the ongoing and dynamic impacts and travel restrictions associated with the Covid-19 pandemic continue to present a challenge to all stakeholders. Together with the host organisers we are disappointed not to be able to deliver the planned Series events in Singapore and Cape Town this year, however we look forward to bringing the joy and spirit of rugby sevens back to both cities in 2022. As ever, the health and welfare of players, fans and wider society continues to be our primary concern.
“We are thankful for the strong spirit of collaboration from HSBC and all our partners, who have been unwavering in their support and ensuring that rugby sevens has a bright future. World Rugby is making good progress working with a range of stakeholders to help define the longer-term direction for the Series and we are confident this will provide a platform for the continued global growth of the game to build on what we know will be a very exciting year in 2022.”
