New Zealand took home the title of champions at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2023. During an electrifying weekend of spectacular rugby and ecstatic fun zones at the Singapore Sports Hub, the All Blacks Sevens reclaimed the Singapore title they once owned in 2005, with a thrilling 19 - 17 defeat of Argentina. Their undefeated winning streak this weekend also guaranteed their spot at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
Over the past two days, close to 40,000 fans enjoyed the fun-filled air and vibrant energy of the Family Sevens, that reverberated across the Singapore Sports Hub. Fans cheered their lungs out for their favourite teams, explored the plethora of family-friendly activities at the 100PLUS Promenade, and even jammed out to live performances at OCBC Square. Fans showcased their creativity through costumes with Teletubbies, giant bumblebees, human hot-dogs, Easter bunnies and many more strutting their stuff in the stands.
The All Blacks in action against Argentina at the National Stadium. Photo Credit : HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2023
As part of the weekend's activities, the Titans Ruck and Rumble also saw players of the future having the opportunity to compete on the National Stadium’s world class pitch. In a series of tournaments for under 8s to under 18s, we saw young players putting their best boot forward, bringing vigour and power to all their games.
Roy Teo, Chief, Industry Development, Technology and Innovation Group, Sport Singapore said, “Since 2002, the Singapore leg of the World Rugby Sevens series has gained a reputation for delivering experiences that encourage community bonding through sport. This year was no different – apart from the community coming together at the National Stadium in support of their international and regional Sevens teams, the event saw families connecting over parent-child activities. In addition, we hope that bringing in events like HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens to Singapore will not just ignite more interest in the sport locally and inspire the next generation of youth athletes, but also continue to bolster Singapore's place in the sporting world.”
A section of the 40,000 spectators at the National Stadium over the weekend. Photo Credit : HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2023
Yazed Osman, Group Head, Events & Placemaking, Singapore Sports Hub said “We have concluded yet another exhilarating weekend at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens with New Zealand clinching the Cup. Dubbed ‘Family Sevens’, fans from all across the world were treated to epic rugby action, exciting activities, gastronomical delights, and energetic entertainment at the iconic Singapore Sports Hub. This is the first international sporting event at the National Stadium this year and we look forward to hosting more of such marquee sporting events for our fans to continue fuelling passion within our local sports community and budding athletes.”
A Pitch For World-Class and Aspiring Athletes Alike
The rugby action doesn’t end here! On Monday 10 April, the National Stadium will play host to the National School Games’ B Division rugby finals as St. Andrew’s Secondary School faces Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) to determine the 2023 champions.
Celebrate youth sport with ActiveSG Circle's coverage of National School Games 2023 here