The event that lasted three days just ended at Kai Tak Sports Park. And it turns out Hong Kong is not the only location hosting the championship match; VALLADOLID and BORDEAUX are next. Despite the various global locations, HSBC is the major host of the events.
Speaking of the event in Hong Kong, I didn’t get the chance yet to watch the event in the stadium, but watching the games on the screen is quite refreshing. Unfamiliar with rugby, the actions are so fast-paced when comparing with other team sports. Maybe it’s one of the shortest matches. The winner is effectively decided in matters of around 15 minutes, which cover 2 halves. A bit too short for me as an audience member who gets used to watching games lasting over an hour. Much kudos to the visitors coming from all over the world to experience the event. I can only admire their dedication to supporting their national team.
Amid the exciting games, there is still something that annoys me while watching. Aren’t the sponsor ads on the field a bit too intrusive? Especially for such short games. The execution is accurate and artistic, though.
Before closing (pardon me for the lack of insights in the sport), here is a list of prohibited items to be aware of in case of future visits (source: https://hksevens.com/prohibiteditems).
Any kind of weapon
No outside food and beverage, except baby food, medication, and food and beverage from outlets operated or authorized by Kai Tak Sports Park Limited is allowed
Plastic, glass, metal containers, cans and bottles (except baby food, medication)
Alcoholic beverages
Illegal substance
Laser pens or pointers
Inflated lighter-than-air objects (e.g. helium balloons)
Wheeled recreational devices, including but not limited to skateboard, bicycles, scooters
Any balls
Drones, remote-controlled flying devices or kites
Bags larger than 35cm x 20cm x 30cm (too large to fit under your seat)
Umbrellas and selfie sticks longer than 35cm in length
Any other items deemed harmful, disruptive, offensive, or that may hinder the operation of the venue or its associated facilities
Items prohibited by the laws of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
No water containers will be bugging me the most. Maybe foldable or bag-type water containers will work? This would be a concern for another day, anyway.
Lastly, online fans say that there are some leaks in the stadium ceiling because of the heavy rain during the games. Still, it’s better than being outside in the rain with no shelter, right?
Presumed rainwater can be seen pouring into Kai Tak Stadium on the first day of the Hong Kong Sevens, even though the roof is closed. The city is currently under an Amber Rainstorm Warning. pic.twitter.com/Yyo9qmufBb
— Connor Mycroft (@connor_mycroft) April 17, 2026