The 2016 USA Sevens International Rugby Tournament set a record-breaking attendance figure of 80,138 throughout the three-day event at Sam Boyd Stadium, March 4-6.
“Since the tournament first came to Las Vegas in February 2010, attendance numbers have increased by 100 percent,” said Jonathan First, president of United World Sports. “With rugby making its return to the Summer Olympic Games this year, its growth will continue to excel, allowing us to continue the trend of record-breaking attendance in the years to come.”
For the seventh consecutive year, North America’s premier rugby event showcased the growth of the sport by attracting audiences across the globe, filling Sam Boyd Stadium with consecutive daily crowds of 18,441, 35,716 and 25,981. In addition, the Las Vegas round was broadcasted live on NBC and NBCSN, allowing the tournament to reach national and international audiences in over 400 million homes and 147 countries.
With the addition of rugby sevens in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games, spectators witnessed 16 countries compete in 45 matches in preparation for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Teams competing in the Olympic Games include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Japan, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States, with one more team scheduled to qualify.
The Fijian national rugby sevens team defended last year’s title during the USA Sevens Las Vegas Cup Final by defeating Australia 21-15 in the championship match held on Sunday, March 6. In addition, Team USA rugby sevens team placed fourth in the HSBC World Series Las Vegas round after a 10-21 defeat against South Africa.
On Saturday, March 5, the record-breaking crowds were on their feet following an on-field performance by legendary Jamaican singer OMI, who performed his hit single “Cheerleader” and “Hula Hoop.” Coinciding with the tournament, the International Beer, Wine & Food Festival provided an intercontinental experience with a combination of more than 50 global food and promotional vendors.
Throughout the week leading up to the tournament, Las Vegas turned into rugby central with a variety of events, including a Team USA Olympic Pep Rally at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, a Parade of Nations with all 16 countries walking the red carpet down the iconic Fremont Street Experience, autograph sessions, nightly events at top bars and nightclubs and more, which allowed fans to get up close and personal with their favorite rugby stars.
The USA Sevens International Rugby Tournament is scheduled to return to Las Vegas next March.
Photo Credit: Jack Megaw
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