Rugby Sevens – Summer Games 2024
At the Summer Games, the sport is played as rugby sevens, with seven players on the pitch and matches that only last 14 minutes (two halves lasting seven minutes each). The game is quick and intense and, in 2024, 24 teams will travel to the Paris Games:
12 men’s teams and 12 women’s teams. Rugby sevens is played in two three- day sessions: three days for the men’s tournament and three days for the women’s tournament. The first day is dedicated to two pool matches, the second day to one pool match and the quarter finals, and finally the third day to the semi-finals, final and bronze medal matches.
Schedule
Records
Men's Rugby Sevens:
First Gold Medalists:
Fiji created history by winning the first-ever gold medal in men's rugby sevens at the Rio 2016 Summer Games. They showcased exceptional skill and flair, capturing the hearts of fans around the world.
Fiji's Dominance:
Fiji continued its dominance in men's rugby sevens by winning back-to-back gold medals. They secured their second gold at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games held in 2021, showcasing their prowess in the sport.
Women's Rugby Sevens:
Australia's Success:
Australia won the first gold medal in women's rugby sevens at the Rio 2016 Summer Games. The Australian women's team displayed excellent teamwork and skill on their way to securing the historic gold.
General Rugby Sevens Records:
Top Try Scorers:
Records exist for individual players who have scored the most tries in a single Summer Games rugby sevens tournament. Fast and skillful players often shine in this regard.
Team Scoring Records:
Teams that score the most points and tries in a single Summer Games rugby sevens tournament contribute to overall records. These records showcase the offensive prowess of certain teams.
Defensive Records:
Records for the fewest points conceded and the best defensive performances by teams are also notable in rugby sevens. Strong defensive strategies play a crucial role in a team's success.
Did you know that..
Rugby sevens made its Summer Games debut at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Games. This marked the return of rugby to the Summer Games after a 92-year absence, with sevens being chosen for its dynamic and spectator-friendly format.
Unlike traditional rugby union matches, which last 80 minutes, rugby sevens matches are shorter in duration. Each game consists of two halves, each lasting seven minutes, making the sport faster-paced and more intense.
Fiji's men's rugby sevens team achieved a historic feat by winning back-to-back gold medals at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021) Summer Games. Their impressive performances showcased the island nation's dominance in the sport.
The Australian women's rugby sevens team won the inaugural gold medal in the women's competition at the Rio 2016 Summer Games. Their victory highlighted the global growth and competitiveness of women's rugby.
The inclusion of rugby sevens in the Summer Games has contributed to the global expansion of the sport. Many nations have embraced sevens as a pathway to Games success, leading to increased competition and excitement in international tournaments.