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| Japan Now an IRB World Series Host |
| International - HSBC Sevens World Series |
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With 100 days to go until the start of the new Series, Tokyo's Prince Chichibu Stadium has been announced as the venue for the seventh round, one week after the renowned tournament in Hong Kong. The expansion into Japan is another major boost for Asian Rugby, which has experienced an 18% increase in participation since Rugby World Cup 2007. IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “I am delighted that Tokyo is joining the international roster of tournaments that comprise the record-breaking HSBC Sevens World Series, which last season was watched in 147 countries in 16 languages. I am sure that the Japan Rugby Football Union will host a successful and popular event that Japan, Asia and the global Rugby family will be proud of. “These are extremely exciting times for Rugby in Asia, where interest in Rugby has been boosted by Japan securing hosting rights for Rugby World Cup 2019 and Olympic inclusion. The IRB is committed to ensuring all the processes are in place for the continued development of the sport throughout the Region so that even more men, women and children can enjoy Rugby. “We very much look forward to working in partnership with the Japan Rugby Football Union to deliver an event that will benefit Asian Rugby and mark another significant milestone as we countdown to Sevens’ Olympic Games debut in Rio in 2016." The IRB is committed to the development of Rugby across Asia and working in collaboration with the Asian Rugby Football Union (ARFU), it is currently investing over US$3 million annually in development, high performance and tournament programs across Asia. The awarding of this Tournament to Japan is a key step in the process. Japan looks forward to welcoming the world “We are determined to take this opportunity to demonstrate the appetite for Rugby in Japan and give international fans a taste of what to expect at Rugby World Cup 2019. We want to deliver an outstanding Sevens tournament that Japan and Asia can be proud of. To our visitors from overseas, please come and enjoy the tournament and witness Japan’s strong unity through these tough times. We are truly looking forward to welcoming the international rugby community for the HSBC Sevens World Series.” Japan's inclusion signals the first expansion of the World Series since HSBC was appointed title sponsor. Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship, HSBC Holdings said: “Following on from the record growth in attendance and broadcast coverage for the first year of the HSBC Sevens World Series, it is fantastic news that the Series is expanding to nine international tournaments. The addition of a leg in Japan, the week after the hugely popular Cathay Pacific / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, will give the sport of Rugby Sevens a real opportunity to be showcased across Asia. “HSBC looks forward to the continued growth of the HSBC Sevens World Series over the coming years, as the Rugby Sevens world builds towards the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.” Last season's HSBC Sevens World Series reached its bold attendance target by attracting over 500,000 fans around the world, and reached 332 million homes. HSBC Sevens World Series 2011/12 |
The International Rugby Board (IRB) has announced the expansion of the HSBC Sevens World Series, with Japan joining as the ninth venue for the upcoming 2011/2012 Series.
