The Hong Kong Sevens has returned with renewed energy and expanded programming, and organisers expect this year’s tournament to deliver an even greater economic and tourism boost than previous editions.

Hong Kong China Rugby chairman Chris Brooke told RTHK in an exclusive interview on the first day of action that the 50th anniversary of the Sevens, combined with a growing lineup of surrounding events, is drawing larger international crowds and extending visitor stays in the city.

“We’re expecting a bit more this year,” he said, noting that last year’s tournament scrummed up just under HK$800 million for the Hong Kong economy.

“We have more people coming in from overseas. We have more ticket sales. If you look at the hotels, the flights, the F&B [and] catering industry, we'll be able to generate in excess of US$100 million.”

The Sevens, now in the second year of its Kai Tak Stadium edition, has evolved into a week-long festival.

Alongside the main tournament, Brooke said, events such as “Racing with Rugby,” the Hong Kong Tens and a variety of community and fitness activities have broadened its appeal.

Organisers have also expanded the fan experience within the stadium precinct, with new additions including paddle sports, netball, wheelchair rugby and fitness activations, transforming the venue into a multi-sport entertainment hub.

Brooke said these efforts are designed to not only attract spectators but also encourage visitors to stay longer in Hong Kong, benefiting sectors such as hotels, airlines, and the food and beverage industry.

“Hopefully people will stay here for longer and we can generate more impact both locally and from international visitors,” he said.

Tourism remains a central focus, Brooke said, with overseas fans expected to make up around 30 to 35 percent of the crowd.

He said achieving that target would mark a strong recovery for Hong Kong’s international events sector and reinforce the Sevens’ status as a global sporting attraction.

Beyond the economic benefits, organisers are also aiming to deliver a seamless and memorable experience following lessons learned from last year’s debut at Kai Tak Stadium.

Improvements have been made to crowd flow, queuing and food and beverage services to enhance comfort for fans across all areas of the venue, Brooke said.

As the city celebrates five decades of the iconic tournament, Brooke emphasised that success will ultimately be measured not just in revenue but in the overall experience, saying: “I think also just everybody enjoying the weekend and going away with a very positive experience and looking forward to another next year.”


Edited by Tony Sabine