https://www.scmp.com/rss/21473/feed The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is one of the biggest sporting events in Hong Kong and the premier tournament on the HSBC SVNS Series calendar. Taking place at Hong Kong Stadium, it features the world’s best teams competing for the coveted title. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com SCMP Sport SCMP Sport In some ways, Saturday at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is like hump day, the bit to be successfully navigated so you can get to the fun stuff - at least it is for the players. Pool matches this morning give way to quarter-finals this evening, and for those who make it through, the promise of better days tomorrow. That’s not the case in stands, where the second day of the city’s iconic sporting event is universally known among supporters as fancy dress day, party day and the day when the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350548/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-blitzboks-seek-vital-win-australia-face-canada-challenge?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350548/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-blitzboks-seek-vital-win-australia-face-canada-challenge?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:03:06 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Aden Ekanayake acknowledged careers were on the line at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, but challenged his Australia team “to stay on the winning train” and dispel any relegation fears. The bottom four finishers in the three-leg HSBC SVNS World Championship, which is beginning with the Hong Kong tournament, will be condemned to impoverished second-tier rugby next season. But the towering 21-year-old figure of Ekanayake said his team, who finished third in the regular season standings, should... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350534/australia-star-acknowledges-players-careers-line-cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350534/australia-star-acknowledges-players-careers-line-cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:19 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Rory Stewart-Cox said Hong Kong would aim to “lay down a marker” when they meet Asian Games hosts Japan at Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday. Earning his third cap, Stewart-Cox scored the pick of Hong Kong’s six tries on Friday as the city team began their Melrose Claymores campaign with a 36-14 demolition of overmatched China. Evading four challenges as he sprinted half the length of the pitch, Stewart-Cox touched down to banish the frustration of an injury-hit past six months. “It’s been an... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350536/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-hosts-aiming-put-down-asian-games-marker-against-japan?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350536/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-hosts-aiming-put-down-asian-games-marker-against-japan?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:00:17 +0000 Josh Ball Josh Ball Hong Kong welcomed back its iconic Sevens rugby tournament for a 50th year on Friday, with an opening ceremony featuring robots, K-pop and a light show almost as sparkling as some of the action on the pitch. Not even a hole in the roof of the HK$30 billion Kai Tak Stadium could put a dampener on proceedings, even if the rain that leaked in left some fans running for cover. Even so, the thunderstorms that hovered over the city for much of the afternoon did little to deter spectators generally,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350541/hong-kong-sevens-heaven-dazzling-display-marks-start-50th-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350541/hong-kong-sevens-heaven-dazzling-display-marks-start-50th-year?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:06:53 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Hong Kong head coach Andy Vilk said there were always positives to take away after the city’s women escaped with a draw against Denmark on Friday. Playing in the Melrose Claymores tournament at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, the reigning champions found themselves in a bit of a hole after the visitors jumped to a 14-0 lead through tries from Sofie Giessing and Mille Elmbak either side of half-time. Veteran Chong Ka-yan salvaged the day for the hosts with a pair of tries inside the final three... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350533/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-hong-kong-coach-sees-positive-side-womens-close-escape?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350533/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-hong-kong-coach-sees-positive-side-womens-close-escape?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:30:07 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Australia and New Zealand look highly likely to meet again in the women’s final at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens on Sunday, after both teams made perfect starts to their world championship campaigns. However, while New Zealand dispatched Brazil 29-12 and Japan 38-7 at Kai Tak Stadium and should be untroubled by Fiji in their final pool match against Fiji on Saturday, the Australians have a tougher assignment ahead against Canada. Australia sit second in Pool B behind Canada despite thrashing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350504/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-australia-new-zealand-look-set-inevitable-showdown?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350504/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-australia-new-zealand-look-set-inevitable-showdown?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:00:12 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Out of public view beneath Kai Tak Stadium’s South Stand, Germany’s players huddled around Pablo Feijoo and listened to the head coach tell them they should not be surprised by the speed and ferocity they had just encountered. Among those listening to the Spaniard address his squad in English following their 42-5 defeat by Fiji was Niklas Koch, the captain who combines trying to put rugby on the map in a football-crazy country with working as a policeman. Stepping away from the debrief, he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350485/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-german-star-combining-rugby-police-duties?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350485/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-german-star-combining-rugby-police-duties?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:00:09 +0000 Stephy Zhang Stephy Zhang Cheers, music, and lights broke through the roof of the Kai Tak Stadium on Friday as fans old and new joined the opening day of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens for the “best weekend of the year”. Following eight hours of action, 21 matches, and hundreds of points, the city’s Sports Minister Rosanna Law Shuk-pui and former Australian rugby player Michael Hooper performed the traditional “eye-dotting” ceremony for five dragons on the pitch at the start of a thumping opening ceremony. Accompanied... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350525/rugby-fans-old-and-new-celebrate-best-weekend-year-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350525/rugby-fans-old-and-new-celebrate-best-weekend-year-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:23:01 +0000 Connor Mycroft Connor Mycroft An amber rainstorm warning and a leaky roof failed to dampen the mood of fans as the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament kicked off its 50th anniversary edition on Friday. First-time visitors to the city’s signature annual sporting event expressed amazement at the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, while a food shortage fiasco that plagued last year’s tournament appeared to have been addressed. Costumed revellers gearing up for three days of rugby could already be seen entering the South Stand –... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3350524/gloomy-weather-cant-take-shine-hong-kong-sevens-visiting-rugby-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3350524/gloomy-weather-cant-take-shine-hong-kong-sevens-visiting-rugby-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:11:18 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport After all the talk, and there has been plenty, it’s finally time for the serious business of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens to get started – and while the players work hard, the fans are undoubtedly going to play hard. For the teams, it’s the opening leg of the newly created HSBC SVNS World Championship. Points have been reset, sides have been added, and the sprint to the finish in Bordeaux in June begins today. South Africa won the men’s regular season title, and in much less of a shock, New... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hong-kong-rugby-union/article/3350388/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-all-eyes-blitzboks-black-ferns-early-day-1?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hong-kong-rugby-union/article/3350388/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-all-eyes-blitzboks-black-ferns-early-day-1?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 02:00:34 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport The talking is done, the planning is over and all that is left is for the fans to enter the stadium and the players to get onto the pitch. It’s 50th anniversary Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, and as usual there is plenty you should know about the three days that lie ahead. So, here’s our handy guide to some things you should know on Friday. 1 It’s a sell-out Anyone hoping to grab a three-day ticket is going to be disappointed, according to organisers, who say they have all sold out. All that... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350371/boks-chasing-first-title-tickets-sell-out-5-things-know-day-1-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350371/boks-chasing-first-title-tickets-sell-out-5-things-know-day-1-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:00:26 +0000 Ambrose Li,Stephy Zhang Ambrose Li,Stephy Zhang Bars and restaurants are gearing up for a bumper three days during the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament, brushing off concerns that rising airfares because of the Middle East war might put off visitors, with some operators expecting a surge of up to 40 per cent compared with a regular weekend. Business magnate and Lan Kwai Fong Group chairman Allan Zeman told the South China Morning Post that the loyal following of the flagship tournament, which runs from Friday to Sunday at the 50,000-seat Kai... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3350374/bars-gearing-bumper-hong-kong-sevens-weekend?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3350374/bars-gearing-bumper-hong-kong-sevens-weekend?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:30:09 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Bryn Phillips is aiming to inspire the next generation of city players at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, while also plotting his exit strategy from a high-achieving career. A key member of the 12-man Hong Kong squad for the exhibition Melrose Claymores tournament at Kai Tak Stadium, the scrum-half is ultimately aiming to follow in the footsteps of teammates Tom and Alex McQueen and become an airline pilot. Playing his ninth year of international rugby, however, Phillips has plenty more he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350306/hong-kong-rugby-star-aiming-inspire-sevens-plotting-cathay-career?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350306/hong-kong-rugby-star-aiming-inspire-sevens-plotting-cathay-career?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:17 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Hong Kong’s pursuit of top international sports events has gathered pace in recent years. But it is difficult to beat the excitement generated by the Hong Kong Sevens, the iconic rugby tournament born in the city and celebrating its 50th anniversary. Last year, the event became the first major sports competition staged at the newly opened Kai Tak Stadium. It was hailed as a success. This weekend, the Sevens will again bring its unique blend of sporting excellence, top-class entertainment and a... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3350307/50-years-sevens-hong-kongs-festival-fun-awaits-worlds-rugby-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3350307/50-years-sevens-hong-kongs-festival-fun-awaits-worlds-rugby-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:15:07 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport It feels as though we have been talking about the 50th anniversary of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens for months, which, in fairness, some people have. Planning for the week has been serious business, both for organisers and those with three days of partying and rugby in mind. And as usual, there is as much action off the pitch as on it, with K-pop artists, a Eurodance group and DJs all performing at Kai Tak Stadium. But making the most of what to see and do requires almost as much groundwork... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350362/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-event-planner-your-guide-ultimate-sports-party?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350362/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-event-planner-your-guide-ultimate-sports-party?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:00:16 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara He has seen the man who 16 months ago beat him over 100 metres attain global stardom, but after committing to rugby, the fast-developing Bailey Roberts-Lintmeijer is ready for his turn to “get on the world stage and prove myself”. In Hong Kong to represent First Nations & Pasifika in the Tradition HKFC 10s, Roberts-Lintmeijer, 18, began training with Australia’s senior sevens squad last year. After banishing his butterflies over rubbing shoulders with the country’s best sevens players, he has... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350363/racing-gout-gout-chasing-sevens-stardom-aussie-teen-gas-burn?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350363/racing-gout-gout-chasing-sevens-stardom-aussie-teen-gas-burn?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:00:50 +0000 Lau Ka Kuen,Joe Lo Lau Ka Kuen,Joe Lo https://www.scmp.com/infographics/sport/article/3349799/rugbys-greatest-weekend-50-years-hong-kong-sevens-infographic?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/infographics/sport/article/3349799/rugbys-greatest-weekend-50-years-hong-kong-sevens-infographic?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:15:08 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Eugene Cheung admitted that his role as the on-site dentist at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens keeps him just as busy on the pitch as it does off the pitch. Cheung started working at the tournament in 2017 after a colleague, who had the job previously but decided to change speciality, recommended him to the Hong Kong China Rugby Union. With his experience covering tournaments at Hong Kong Stadium and at Kai Tak Stadium, Cheung revealed that the players are generally pretty aware about dental... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350288/hong-kong-sevens-dentist-kept-his-toes-fans-just-much-players?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3350288/hong-kong-sevens-dentist-kept-his-toes-fans-just-much-players?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:00:19 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Fourteen years after a freak accident left him paralysed, the formidable Jake Howe is plotting to upgrade his Paralympics bronze from 2024 and win a second World Wheelchair Rugby Championships title later this year. Part of the Australian team that triumphed in this week’s inaugural Hong Kong 5s at Kai Tak Arena, Howe began playing the sport within one year of sustaining his injury. “I’ve always had a positive outlook,” he said. “My partner at the time was three months pregnant, so you’re not... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350212/aussie-howe-eyes-paralympic-gold-wheelchair-rugby-first-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350212/aussie-howe-eyes-paralympic-gold-wheelchair-rugby-first-hong-kong-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:40 +0000 Ada Li Ada Li Aussie pop icon Jason Donovan, an Abba tribute act and rugby officials, players and fans brought a party atmosphere to Happy Valley, as racing took its turn in the Hong Kong Sevens spotlight on Wednesday. And the racecourse was dressed for the occasion, with rugby-themed decorations and activities drawing crowds of fans already in town for the city’s biggest sporting week. The venue’s “Shout Stand” resembled the infamous South Stand at Kai Tak Stadium, with costumed spectators singing along to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350218/rugby-and-racing-fans-bring-party-atmosphere-hong-kong-sevens-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3350218/rugby-and-racing-fans-bring-party-atmosphere-hong-kong-sevens-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:21:54 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara South Africa captain Impi Visser believes World Rugby’s “confusing” closed-shop sevens model has stunted the sport’s growth. The elite HSBC SVNS Series was cut from 12 to eight teams this season, although for three concluding World Championship legs, which begin with this week’s Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, the numbers are back up to 12. The streamlining has had a damaging knock-on effect, with second-tier teams limited to three competitive tournaments, unless they gained promotion to feature... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350185/south-africa-captain-impi-visser-believes-changes-sevens-format-confusing-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350185/south-africa-captain-impi-visser-believes-changes-sevens-format-confusing-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:18:23 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara She has two Olympic golds and two World Cup winner’s medals, but New Zealand great Portia Woodman-Wickliffe acknowledged she was plagued by nerves before her Tradition HKFC 10s debut on Tuesday. Representing Aone Sports New Zealand Legends in the three-day tournament, the 34-year-old performed a retirement U-turn to play in last year’s 15s World Cup before calling time on her career for a second time two months ago. Woodman-Wickliffe initially quit after starring in New Zealand’s golden 2024... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350060/new-zealand-rugby-legend-woodman-wickliffe-feeling-nervous-ahead-hong-kong-10s-debut?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3350060/new-zealand-rugby-legend-woodman-wickliffe-feeling-nervous-ahead-hong-kong-10s-debut?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:00:18 +0000 Shah Sahari Shah Sahari The Tradition HKFC 10s celebrates its 40th anniversary this week and it’s fair to say a lot has changed since that inaugural tournament in 1986. Shah Sahari looks back at that first event ahead of Tuesday’s opening matches. Ah, 10-a-side rugby: the version for those who fancy themselves as sevens players but without quite having the speed, mobility and physique for it. Back in the dawn of time – 40 years ago, actually – the Hong Kong Football Club, having already launched what was to become the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3349859/hong-kong-10s-was-my-first-proper-rugby-tour-40-years-later-i-still-remember-it-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3349859/hong-kong-10s-was-my-first-proper-rugby-tour-40-years-later-i-still-remember-it-all?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:09 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara The tattoos inscribed on the arms of Au King-to will be joined by a design celebrating her Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens debut, after she overcame self-doubt to earn a place in the city’s team this week. On Sunday, the 29-year-old was named in a 12-strong women’s squad that covers the full range of experience, from a 48th cap for the evergreen Nam Ka-man to 19-year-old Haruka Uematsu, who will make her Hong Kong debut in her side’s Melrose Claymores campaign. There were plenty of fresh faces in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349793/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-debut-15s-stalwart-after-overcoming-self-doubt?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349793/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-debut-15s-stalwart-after-overcoming-self-doubt?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:39 +0000 Josh Ball Josh Ball Hong Kong Jockey Club spent more than a decade working to convince the city’s rugby community they should be allowed to play a part in sevens week – the two sides finally came together on Sunday for the start of eight days when athletes of all stripes will thunder across different types of turf. The men and women who will represent the city at Kai Tak Stadium formed the centrepiece of the event at Sha Tin Racecourse, and for several, including women’s debutant Haruka Uematsu, it will be their... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349801/many-firsts-and-new-faces-rugby-racing-finally-share-stage-hong-kong-7s-week?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349801/many-firsts-and-new-faces-rugby-racing-finally-share-stage-hong-kong-7s-week?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:04:52 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara A genuine Olympic star with two medals from three Games, Charity Williams is planning to “have a blast” on her Kai Tak Stadium debut at this week’s Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens. The Canada wing sat out a series of Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) training matches on Saturday, icing her shoulder as her side faced Fiji, Denmark and the city team. And there is no danger of “just a little stinger” ruling the 29-year-old out for a second straight year. “It’s still awesome to be here [HKSI], this is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349748/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-canada-olympic-star-williams-plans-having-blast?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349748/cathay/hsbc-hong-kong-sevens-canada-olympic-star-williams-plans-having-blast?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Apr 2026 00:00:15 +0000 Alexander Mak Alexander Mak Since the whistle was first blown on March 28, 1976, the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens tournament has grown from a regional invitational into a global spectacle, expanding from 12 teams in its inaugural edition to 30, competing in three distinct competitions, in 2026. In those 50 years – from the early days at the Hong Kong Football Club, in Happy Valley, through the Hong Kong Stadium era to games at its current home, the Kai Tak Sports Park – the contest has transformed dramatically, a pair of... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349385/pictures-50-years-mud-sweat-and-beers-hong-kong-rugby-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3349385/pictures-50-years-mud-sweat-and-beers-hong-kong-rugby-sevens?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:10 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Jevon Groves has a “burning desire” to help Hong Kong make their Olympic sevens qualifying breakthrough, but the head coach said he would review his future following the 2028 Games cycle. The city team contested a full-blooded friendly training match against Fiji at Football Club on Wednesday as part of their preparations for the exhibition Melrose Claymores tournament, which will also feature Japan and China, at next week’s Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens. It is illustrative of the increasingly... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349400/hong-kong-7s-coach-has-desire-olympics-first-targets-kai-tak-asian-games-double?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3349400/hong-kong-7s-coach-has-desire-olympics-first-targets-kai-tak-asian-games-double?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:00:11 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Returning to the scene of the first-ever Hong Kong Sevens, former city rugby captain Bob Lloyd admitted there was “no way” he could have imagined 50 years ago that the tournament would become what it is today. The first edition that kicked off at the Football Club on March 28, 1976, was the only Sevens tournament Lloyd competed in. A former England international with five caps and two career tries between 1967 and 1968, after he finished playing, Lloyd became the coach for the city’s team in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348258/former-hong-kong-sevens-captain-bob-lloyd-relives-50-years-rugby-magic-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348258/former-hong-kong-sevens-captain-bob-lloyd-relives-50-years-rugby-magic-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:30:12 +0000 SCMP SCMP This article was first published on March 29, 1976. By Jack Beattie World ‘sevens’ for HK? A seven-a-side rugby union world cup competition – and possibly staged in Hongkong! That’s the exciting prospect that emerged after yesterday’s first International “Sevens” Championships held at the Hongkong Football Club. Last night Rothmans and Cathay Pacific, the joint-sponsors of this unique event, which had 12 countries competing, were playing it a bit coy – but both agreed that a similar promotion... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348128/first-hong-kong-sevens-rugby-tourney-held-1976-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348128/first-hong-kong-sevens-rugby-tourney-held-1976-scmp-archive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Mar 2026 02:30:07 +0000 Mike Rowse Mike Rowse It was entirely by chance that I attended the first Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament 50 years ago. It has been a priority annual event for me every year since. I was living in the old government quarters site at Leighton Hill at the time (later sold and now a luxury residential development) when a neighbour encouraged me to go. He had attended at the Football Club stadium just down the hill from us on the Saturday, really enjoyed it, and persuaded me to join him on the Sunday. Having nothing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348092/trip-down-memory-lane-how-hong-kong-sevens-has-evolved-world-class-event?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3348092/trip-down-memory-lane-how-hong-kong-sevens-has-evolved-world-class-event?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:09 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Fresh from being honoured at the Hong Kong Coaching Awards last weekend, Paul John said he still had unfinished business as head of the city’s sevens programme. Into his 10th year in the role, John was rewarded with the best team coach prize after Hong Kong’s men claimed National Games gold and strolled to Asia Rugby Sevens Series success in 2025. This year began on a low note, however, when the city team narrowly lost an HSBC SVNS 3 semi-final to Canada, costing them promotion to the second... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3347627/hong-kong-sevens-head-has-unfinished-business-underlines-world-and-olympic-aims?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3347627/hong-kong-sevens-head-has-unfinished-business-underlines-world-and-olympic-aims?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:13 +0000 Stephy Zhang Stephy Zhang The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens celebrates its 50th birthday next month, although there appears to be little excitement in the city as the tournament approaches. Rather than being ready to mark the special occasion, fans and businesses the South China Morning Post spoke to were more inclined to treat it as “just an ordinary week”, while bemoaning the rise in ticket prices. A first rise in prices since 2018 has taken the cost of a three-day ticket to HK$2,250 for adults and HK$1,100 for children... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3346719/hong-kong-sevens-hits-50-fans-more-focused-ticket-prices-just-ordinary-week?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3346719/hong-kong-sevens-hits-50-fans-more-focused-ticket-prices-just-ordinary-week?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:30:09 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara Ben Gollings believes world rugby chiefs still need to locate the “sweet spot that will bring the attractiveness back to sevens”, after a controversial overhaul last year shrank their marquee HSBC SVNS Series. Sevens royalty following a record-breaking playing career, Englishman Gollings is on the frontline of attempts to grow the sport in India, and he will lead the recently formed franchise team Chennai Bulls in this year’s expanded Tradition HKFC 10s. “We want to provide more opportunities... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3344368/rugby-7s-royalty-ben-gollings-bringing-chennai-bulls-play-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3344368/rugby-7s-royalty-ben-gollings-bringing-chennai-bulls-play-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:00:11 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens in April is promising to be the biggest in the tournament’s 50-year history, with organisers saying they had already sold the equivalent of 100,000 tickets. Last year’s crowd for the Sevens’ debut at Kai Tak Stadium was more than 110,000 for the three days, and officials expect to surpass that figure with all corporate boxes and individual hospitality sold out. The South Stand Pass category offering access to the infamous party area is also sold out, although... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3342359/hong-kong-sevens-rugby-expects-another-bumper-crowd-2026-after-selling-100000-tickets?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3342359/hong-kong-sevens-rugby-expects-another-bumper-crowd-2026-after-selling-100000-tickets?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:30:37 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport An expanded Hong Kong 10s tournament and midweek racing at Happy Valley are among the changes being made to this year’s sevens week in the city, as the landmark tournament celebrates its 50th birthday in April. For the first time, a partnership between Hong Kong China Rugby, the Hong Kong Jockey Club and Hong Kong Football Club will bring an element of cohesion to what is traditionally the biggest week in the city’s sporting calendar. Rugby and racing will work in tandem through the week, with... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3340029/rugby-and-racing-join-forces-make-hong-kongs-sevens-week-bigger-and-better?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3340029/rugby-and-racing-join-forces-make-hong-kongs-sevens-week-bigger-and-better?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:20:45 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium has been ranked the world’s No 3 in ticket sales in 2025 just nine months after its debut, with its operator saying the ranking cements the city’s status as Asia’s events capital. According to data compiled by Pollstar, a US-based trade publication for the concert and live music industry, the stadium also ranked No 5 worldwide for total gross revenue and No 1 in Asia for both categories. Its sister venue, the 10,000-seat Kai Tak Arena – which caters to... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336530/hong-kongs-kai-tak-stadium-ranks-worlds-no-3-ticket-sales-debut-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336530/hong-kongs-kai-tak-stadium-ranks-worlds-no-3-ticket-sales-debut-year?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Dec 2025 14:25:21 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport This year’s Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens pumped almost US$100 million into the city’s economy, according to a report from leading global analytics firm Nielsen. Held at Kai Tak Stadium for the first time, the three-day event in March had a total attendance of 110,907, the report said, with Saturday drawing the largest number of fans to the 50,000-seat venue. While local supporters made up the lion’s share of that figure, almost 24 per cent were visitors, with officials estimating that 10,000 had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3336220/hong-kong-sevens-injected-almost-us100-million-local-economy-kai-tak-debut?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3336220/hong-kong-sevens-injected-almost-us100-million-local-economy-kai-tak-debut?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan My previous column explored how the fear of repercussions is driving widespread self-censorship within institutions and public discourse. Yet, at the same time, the world of sports is experiencing a troubling increase in toxic behaviour, where once-unifying arenas are becoming battlegrounds of hostility and division. At the recent Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, Rory McIlroy and the European team faced relentless abuse, including verbal taunts, homophobic slurs and even outright... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3329131/hong-kong-can-showcase-true-sportsmanship-national-games?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3329131/hong-kong-can-showcase-true-sportsmanship-national-games?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:30:09 +0000 Tom Bell Tom Bell Ticket details have been revealed for the 2026 Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, as the tournament prepares to celebrate half a century in existence. Next year’s edition, to be held at Kai Tak Stadium from April 17 to 19, will mark 50 years since the event’s inception in 1976. The first key date for ticket sales is October 1, when priority access will begin for registered members of local rugby clubs. International ticket and travel packages will go on sale in early October through the tournament’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3325708/hong-kong-sevens-2026-ticket-details-announced-50th-anniversary-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3325708/hong-kong-sevens-2026-ticket-details-announced-50th-anniversary-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Sep 2025 07:35:54 +0000 Letters Letters Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words, and must include your full name and address, plus a phone number for verification It is heartbreaking to learn that the number of suicides in 2024 was the highest since 2003. The Actuarial Society of Hong Kong recently reported that suicide is the leading cause of death among... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3324868/hong-kong-needs-more-open-and-empathetic-conversations-suicide?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3324868/hong-kong-needs-more-open-and-empathetic-conversations-suicide?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Sep 2025 03:30:08 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara The 2026 Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens has been scheduled for mid-April and confirmed as the opening leg of the inaugural HSBC SVNS World Championship. Hong Kong remain in the dark, however, over their precise route into the elite competition, three weeks before the city teams begin their campaigns with an Asia Rugby Sevens Series (ARSS) competition in Hangzhou. Kai Tak Stadium will stage its second Hong Kong Sevens from April 17 to 19. The 2025 edition, which concluded with Argentina’s men and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3323887/hong-kong-sevens-set-mid-april-and-chosen-launch-controversial-world-championship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/hk-sevens/article/3323887/hong-kong-sevens-set-mid-april-and-chosen-launch-controversial-world-championship?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Sep 2025 06:45:29 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong New cultural and sports venues have helped to attract visitors, with tourist numbers for August hitting a post-Covid high, but the city needs a “Hong Kong Inc” movement to elevate its brand on the world stage, a forum has heard. Speakers at the Redefining Hong Kong conference on culture, sports and tourism, hosted by the South China Morning Post on Monday, said that the city was still struggling with global brand recognition and faced major financial challenges in sustaining its arts... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3323870/hong-kong-arrivals-surge-12-post-covid-record-515-million-visits-august?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3323870/hong-kong-arrivals-surge-12-post-covid-record-515-million-visits-august?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:58:41 +0000 Alice Wu Alice Wu The last time I checked, Hong Kong still considered itself a world city, one where East meets West and international talent gathers. We have been told ad infinitum that the city is a “superconnector”, while Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu also calls Hong Kong a “super value-adder”. But it seems those in charge of National Games coordination didn’t get the memo. National Games tickets went on sale last Thursday morning, but soon hit a snag: the online ticketing system did not provide an... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3323668/monolingual-national-games-ticketing-system-bad-look-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3323668/monolingual-national-games-ticketing-system-bad-look-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Sep 2025 01:30:10 +0000 Josh Ball Josh Ball A new sevens tournament based on clubs not countries, and format changes such as power plays and no half-time will launch in 2026, with officials believing it would help rather than hinder the sport. Bankrolled by BIA Sports Group (BSG), the company that owns Premier League club Sunderland, the hoped-to-be global competition has a working name of Project 7s and a start date of August next year. Games would be played over the course of four hours on one evening, rather than stretched across three... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3318706/powerplays-no-half-time-and-cannon-balls-new-global-sevens-circuit-eyes-2026-launch?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3318706/powerplays-no-half-time-and-cannon-balls-new-global-sevens-circuit-eyes-2026-launch?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:30:08 +0000 Ken Chu Ken Chu With China’s 15th National Games set for November, Hong Kong’s preparations are well under way. From Kai Tak Sports Park cutting its teeth on international events to the mobilisation of 15,000 local volunteers with training and test events, the city’s preparations signal that the Games are more than a sporting event. It is a platform for rethinking how Hong Kong engages with its Greater Bay Area neighbours, the city’s youth and the nation as a whole. This year marks the first time that Hong... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3313213/hong-kongs-co-hosting-national-games-about-much-more-sport?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3313213/hong-kongs-co-hosting-national-games-about-much-more-sport?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Jun 2025 01:30:09 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Rightly or wrongly, Hong Kong is often compared with Shanghai or Singapore in various ways. From attracting foreign capital and talents to staging mega-concerts and events, the three places are seen as competing against each other. But while rivalry has become unavoidable on the global stage these days, Hong Kong certainly has its own unique strengths and appeal. Concerns have been raised as big names such as Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga bypassed Hong Kong for performances in Singapore and... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3312802/hong-kong-has-improve-experience-visitors-events-list-grows?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3312802/hong-kong-has-improve-experience-visitors-events-list-grows?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:15:07 +0000 Jane Lee Jane Lee Hong Kong’s stature as a host of world-class mega-events is growing. Headline-making events – from Art Basel and the Hong Kong Sevens to the Coldplay concerts – stimulate economic growth, create jobs and enhance the city’s reputation as a vibrant international destination. Major events in the first half of 2025 are expected to attract 840,000 visitors and generate HK$3.3 billion in spending, as well as HK$1.8 billion in additional economic value. The success of such events goes beyond attendance... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3311795/hong-kong-should-become-stage-green-mega-events?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3311795/hong-kong-should-become-stage-green-mega-events?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 28 May 2025 01:30:07 +0000 SCMP Sport SCMP Sport The World Rugby Sevens Series has received a blow with news that the Irish union has decided to discontinue its men’s programme at the end of this season. The decision followed a review after last year’s Olympics, and was “part of a broader strategic effort to ensure long-term financial sustainability and focus on key initiatives”, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) said. It came after the release last November of its financial results, which showed an €18 million (US$20.2 million) deficit... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3310498/rugby-sevens-given-reality-check-ireland-disbands-its-mens-team?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/3310498/rugby-sevens-given-reality-check-ireland-disbands-its-mens-team?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 May 2025 09:53:30 +0000 Josh Ball Josh Ball World Rugby has said the changes to its sevens competition were designed to secure the sport’s financial future and grow its global reach ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Confirming it was slashing the number of teams in the World Series from 12 to eight, and installing a six-team second division, the sport’s governing body also said regular tournaments would be cut from three days to just two. There was no word, however, on the format for the new World Championship Series, which will be... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3308766/sevens-financial-future-stake-changes-necessary-olympics-world-rugby?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3308766/sevens-financial-future-stake-changes-necessary-olympics-world-rugby?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 May 2025 02:42:46 +0000