HONG Kong, who were forced to qualify for this year's inaugural Rugby World Cup Sevens, are one of only three teams given automatic entry into the 1997 event.
Hosts Hong Kong, reigning champions England and runners-up Australia have been given direct entry while seven-a-side specialists Fiji, current Hong Kong Sevens champions Western Samoa and powerhouses New Zealand, plus Wales, France, Ireland and Scotland, all must qualify.
Rugby World Cup Limited director Marcel Martin said the 58 other teams affiliated to the International Rugby Football Board would play in zonal qualifying matches for the remaining 21 places.
And he said such a zonal format could result in the possibility of top sevens nations like Fiji or Western Samoa qualifying for the finals at the expense of one another.
Said Martin: ''In 1997 only holders England, Australia and hosts Hong Kong will qualify directly.
''The 58 other teams affiliated to the IRFB will play for 21 spots.