Hong Kong Rugby Union chairman Patrick Donovan, in his first interview since taking up the role in July this year, has confirmed the intention of the HKRU to stay committed to hosting the popular HSBC Hong Kong 7s tournament in 2020, despite the ongoing protests in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Sevens Rugby 2020
In the interview with the SCMP (South China Morning Post), which has a partnership with the HKRU, Donovan said “I’m absolutely committed to the Hong Kong Sevens continuing next year. We continue to regularly engage in dialogue with sponsors, government and all stakeholders, and there is nothing at this point in time that would lead me to view the Sevens being cancelled.”
The HK 7s rugby tournament is one of the most high profile events on the annual HSBC World Series Sevens calendar and also a big money earner for the HKRU and Hong Kong. The article cites a figure of an estimated HK$380 million income during the HK Sevens week.
The Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens 2020 dates are 3-5 April 2020. The Hong Kong Sevens week includes a number of other rugby events and tournaments such as the All Girls International Rugby 7s 2020 (March 27th and March 28th 2020), Kowloon Rugby Fest and GFI Tens 2020.
What sports have been affected in HK?
The ongoing protests in Hong Kong which initially started due to a controversial extradition bill have caused several sporting events to be cancelled or postponed. These include:
- Hong Kong Formula E-Pix
- Hong Kong Tennis Open
- Harbour Race swim
- Clearwater Bay Open golf
- Cyclothon
- Hong Kong Squash Open
In terms of rugby, some domestic fixtures were cancelled and the planned Police International Rugby Championship was also canned. It was the brainchild of Robbie McRobbie, CEO of the Hong Kong Rugby Union.
Find out about more rugby in Asia:
- The Hong Kong Corporate 7s is this December.
- Find out about the youth New Years Day rugby tournament in Hong Kong.
- Read about the upcoming SEA Games this December which includes rugby sevens.
- Read about the growth of the women’s game in Asia in our interview with Ada Milby.
- The 2022 Gay Games in HK includes rugby 7s.
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