London City 7s backed to become a must-watch rugby event in the capital
London City 7s returns to the Honourable Artillery Company in the City of London on Thursday, following its debut in May 2025. Former Scotland international Jim Hamilton believes the tournament can become a major annual sporting date in the capital. Hamilton, who won 63 caps for Scotland and serves as the event’s voice, said London City 7s combines elite rugby, business networking and live entertainment. He pointed to London’s appetite for rugby and the HAC’s distinctive setting, where artillery sits beneath the ground and the pitch. Union Bordeaux-Bègles, the two-time defending Investec Champions Cup holders, will join Perpignan and the Barbarians in this year’s line-up. Eleven teams will play in men’s and women’s tournaments, beginning with pool matches before knockout rounds and finals under lights. Hamilton hopes clubs from the Premiership, United Rugby Championship, Top 14 and potentially the United States will join in future. The event was created after London lost the European leg of the World SVNS Series. Its first tournament attracted 3,000 corporate attendees, with Harlequins defeating a Saracens side featuring England player Noah Caluori to claim the inaugural title. The Sport x Business Conference starts at 9am, gates open at 11am and the grand finals are scheduled for 8pm.
Comments