Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) has officially announced that the iconic Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens will be held at the new Kai Tak Stadium in 2025. After three decades of being hosted at the Hong Kong Stadium, the world-renowned rugby event will move to the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium from 28-30 March 2025.
The announcement was made today at the Dorsett Hotel Kai Tak, with Mr. John Sharkey, Project Director of Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), in attendance, along with HKCR Chairman Mr. Chris Brooke and CEO Mr. James Farndon. Key sponsors, including Cathay and HSBC, were represented by Edward Bell and Daniel Drew, respectively. Rugby stars Chloe Chan and James Christie, from the Hong Kong China Men’s and Women’s Sevens teams, were also present.
Mr. Chris Brooke expressed his excitement, stating:
“Hong Kong China Rugby is extremely proud to stage one of the key international events at the Kai Tak Sports Park during its opening period, marking a significant milestone for both the Sevens and sports in our city.”
He added: “The convergence of Hong Kong’s most iconic sporting event and this world-class stadium promises a transformational moment. We look forward to the new traditions that will emerge at the new venue.”
A New Era for the Hong Kong Sevens
The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, one of rugby’s most famous tournaments, is set to benefit from the state-of-the-art facilities at Kai Tak Stadium. KTSP has been specifically designed for rugby, offering features like 20 changing rooms, dedicated player areas, and a retractable roof to ensure matches proceed in any weather. The stadium’s bowl cooling system guarantees a comfortable viewing experience for fans.
John Sharkey, KTSP Project Director, commented:
“The Hong Kong Sevens is a renowned global event, and we are excited to host it at KTSP. This sporting occasion not only promotes local rugby but also showcases Hong Kong’s ability to host world-class events, solidifying its status as a mega-event capital.”
The iconic South Stand will also be fully upgraded, providing stunning views of Victoria Harbour, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the Sevens.
A Homecoming for Cathay
Edward Bell, General Manager, Brand, Insights, and Marketing Communications at Cathay, expressed the airline’s excitement about the event’s move to Kai Tak:
“Cathay has been a proud sponsor of the Hong Kong Sevens for over 40 years, and we are thrilled to extend our partnership as the event moves to its new home at Kai Tak Sports Park. Kai Tak holds special meaning for us, as it was our home for more than 40 years.”
He also mentioned that official overseas travel packages will be available on Cathay.com starting in mid-October.
HSBC’s Continued Partnership
Daniel Drew, Chief of Staff Hong Kong at HSBC, added:
“HSBC is honoured to have partnered with the Hong Kong Sevens for over a decade. This world-class sporting event in a world-class stadium will be a game-changer, and we are excited to share this experience with fans in Hong Kong and around the world.”
A Fan Experience Like No Other
Fans attending the 2025 Hong Kong Sevens can expect a weekend filled with 72 world-class rugby matches. The event will also feature the tournament’s famous combination of food, drink, and entertainment, taking the fan experience to a whole new level in the city’s newest sports venue.
The Kai Tak Sports Park entertainment precinct will offer a variety of post-match options, with over 230 retail outlets, including 70 restaurants. KTSP’s Dining Cove will host eight concept restaurants, while more than 30 concession stands and mobile food stalls will be available throughout the stadium.
With excellent transport links, including easy access to the Kai Tak MTR and Sung Wong Toi MTR stations, the stadium is easily reachable for both local and international fans.
Shujaa, Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, will also be participating in the 2025 Hong Kong Sevens.
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