Heather Fisher Hails London City 7s as Rugby Embraces Change
Heather Fisher believes rugby must respond to changing audience expectations, with the London City 7s combining elite competition, entertainment and business networking. The World Cup winner and Olympian, who serves as the event’s Innovation Lead, said fans increasingly seek connection and a broader experience alongside the match itself. The London City 7s takes place on Thursday at the Honourable Artillery Company in the City of London. Launched in May 2025 after the European leg was removed from the World SVNS Series calendar, the event aims to restore top-level sevens rugby to the capital. Wedlake Bell is the sponsor. Eleven teams will contest men’s and women’s tournaments, beginning with pool matches before knockout rounds and finals under lights. Union Bordeaux-Bègles, Perpignan and the Barbarians are among the teams involved. Harlequins won the inaugural title against a Saracens side featuring England player Noah Caluori, in front of 3,000 corporate guests. The Sport x Business Conference starts at 9am, gates open at 11am and the finals are scheduled for 8pm. Fisher said founder Dan James’s aim of building a community around rugby while giving greater exposure and opportunities to players who may otherwise miss out drew her to the project. Thursday’s tournament will provide participating players with a major platform.
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