Hong Kong set for Rugby mania as Hong Kong Sevens kicks off this weekend

The HK stadium

This weekend marks the 40th anniversary of the Hong Kong Sevens, the world’s premier event of its kind and one of Asia’s most popular sporting events. Hong Kong is the place to be for rugby enthusiasts and party-goers alike as it plays host to world-class rugby and entertainment for over 120,000 rugby revellers on 27- 29 March.

In true Hong Kong fashion, the 40th anniversary year will be celebrated with a super-charged entertainment programme combined with fast and furious rugby action. British comedian Al Murray, The Pub Landlord, will keep crowds entertained as the tournament’s official compare while Kings of Disco, The Village People, will headline the opening ceremony ramping up the Seven’s famed fancy dress frolics.

This year’ s competition will also see the world premiere of Kung Fu Rugby, a unique tribute to Hong Kong’s martial arts tradition.

Outside of the stadium, an exciting schedule of activities and entertainment will spread rugby mania throughout the city. The ‘HK7s Official Fans Party’ will broadcast the tournament live beside the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, as well as offering up live music and entertainment. Even Hong Kong’s skyscrapers are getting in on the action, the entire façade of the iconic International Commerce Centre (ICC), will be lit up by the spectacular ‘Hong Kong’s Rugby Spirit’ light show.

The world-famous tournament will see Hong Kong retain its status as the largest tournament on the HSBC Sevens World Series (HSBC SWS) with 16 international teams contesting the HSBC Sevens World Series core team competition and an additional 12 teams contesting the international HSBC Sevens World Series qualifier. The gathering of the world’s greatest ruby players and rugby’s most enthusiastic fans, combined with a carnival atmosphere, will be an unforgettable three days for teams and spectators alike.