The captains of all national men's and women's sevens rugby teams came together today before locking horns at Allianz Stadium this weekend for the HSBC Sydney 7s.
Secured by the NSW Government the HSBC Sydney 7s has been a popular fixture on the Harbour City's major events calendar since 2015, building a reputation as one of the most thrilling and entertaining sporting events in the country.
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the 2023 HSBC Sydney 7s would be the biggest and best yet, while also providing a significant boost to the state's economy.
"Sydney is Australia's home of rugby with the nation's strongest rugby participation and fan base, and the HSBC Sydney 7s is one of the highlights of our city's world-class sporting events calendar which also includes the FIFA Women's World Cup and the Cup of Nations," Mr Franklin said.
"This event also makes a significant contribution to the NSW economy, attracting thousands of fans, players and officials, injecting an estimated $6 million of visitor expenditure into NSW and supporting businesses and jobs.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said a crowd of around 50,000 are expected to flock to Allianz Stadium for an action-packed, fun and colourful event with the world's best rugby players on display.
"It is particularly exciting that this year marks the event's long-awaited return to the world-class Allianz Stadium, which has transformed Moore Park into the nation's premier sports and entertainment precinct," Mr Henskens said.
"The Aussie Women's Sevens team is one of the most successful sporting teams in the country, having won every major trophy last season, with the Men's squad becoming World Rugby Sevens Series Champions for the first time ever, after a nail-biting win over New Zealand in the London Final."
Rugby Australia CEO Andy Marinos said the HSBC Sydney 7s was a great opportunity for sports fans to get behind Australia's world champion sevens rugby teams.
"When it comes to fast-paced action and fun atmosphere there is no better sporting event in the country than the HSBC Sydney 7s. This year is particularly special with the Australian men's and women's teams coming in as the World Series Champions, taking on the world to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics," Mr Marinos said.
The HSBC Sydney 7s takes place at Allianz Stadium from Friday 27 - Sunday 29 January. For event information and to purchase tickets go to www.sydney7s.com.au.
