Asia's lively sporting event moves to a modern, high-tech location

Asia's lively sporting event moves to a modern, high-tech location

Hong Kong hosts the spectacular Rugby Sevens, a once-in-a-lifetime sporting event characterized by unparalleled fun, exciting costumes and an electric atmosphere. Every spring since 1982, Hong Kong Stadium - surrounded by skyscrapers and lush nature - is transformed into the Asian financial hub's biggest and wildest celebration for one whirlwind weekend.

The highlight in the rugby calendar

Rugby fans from all over the world flock to this tournament, considered the jewel of the World Rugby Sevens Series. This special variant of rugby plays in a faster, more intense format and attracts traditional teams from rugby nations such as New Zealand, South Africa and Fiji. But the appeal of the tournament is not just limited to sport. With its carnivalesque atmosphere and legendary party spirit, the event joins other Asian highlights such as the Formula 1 race in Singapore and the Australian Open, which attract tourists and business travelers.

New venue for an exciting future

This year, however, the festival takes place against a completely new backdrop. After more than four decades in the heart of Hong Kong, the tournament is moving across the harbor to a modern 50,000-seat stadium in the new Kai Tak Sports Park. This stunning facility officially opened this month and will also play host to famous rock band Coldplay in April. The elegant complex is part of Hong Kong's push to establish itself as Asia's top mega-event destination, regaining lost ground against cities such as Singapore and Tokyo.

Economic recovery and identity reproduction

The nearly $4 billion project is crucial to Hong Kong's efforts to revitalize its economy and international image, especially after years of strict pandemic measures and a sweeping national security crisis that sparked an exodus of foreign workers and international companies. John Lee, the city manager, praised the new venue as “a state-of-the-art stage for Hong Kong.” “Like the retractable roof of this stadium, the sky is the limit,” he declared at the glamorous opening ceremony.

The perfect experience for fans and players

The new stadium not only offers more space and glamorous architecture, but is also equipped with the latest technology. It is designed to promote the intense and electrifying experience of Rugby Sevens. "We have designed more rugby stadiums than anyone else in the world. The most important thing in rugby is: How close can we bring the spectators to the action on the field?" explains Paul Henry from the architecture firm Populous, which is responsible for the design.

Preserve the legendary atmosphere

Despite the excitement over the new location, the question remains whether it will be possible to retain the Hong Kong Sevens' distinctive party spirit. The designers of the new stadium have strived to recreate the legendary "South Stand" that was famous for hardcore fans in the old arena. The audience there was known for their extravagant costumes and excessive consumption of alcohol, which contributed to the distinctive atmosphere. Although the new South Stand is visually impressive and offers stunning harbor views, it remains to be seen how it will be able to replicate the high-energy atmosphere of the old arena.

Anticipation and special moments

For many participants, the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens will also be the highlight of the post-match celebrations. These rituals have always been an essential part of the tournament experience. Celebrating together, hanging out in the bars of the Wan Chai district and the exuberant atmosphere among friends and strangers will shape the unique flair of the tournament. "The Sevens is one of the reasons why rugby is so big in Hong Kong. Many people I know fly in specifically for this event," says a long-time player. There is great anticipation and everyone hopes to make unforgettable memories and immerse themselves in the decades-long traditions of the event.