Jacques Rogge

Players, coaches, officials and fans the world over are celebrating the announcement that Rugby Sevens will be included at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

An overwhelming vote in favor of inclusion by the International Olympic Committee members at the 121st session in Copenhagen means that the world’s top men’s and women’s sevens players will have the opportunity to compete for an Olympic Gold medal, the pinnacle of sporting achievement.

“This is a historic moment for our sport and for the global rugby community, who were united in support of our campaign,” said president of the International Rugby Board Bernard Lapasset.

“We are excited and honored to be joining the Olympic Games and I would like to thank the IOC members for believing in our Olympic vision and our values and recognizing that Rugby Sevens is a perfect fit for the Olympic Games.

“The Olympic Games will be the pinnacle of the sport for all our athletes and the rugby family. The best men’s and women’s players in the world are excited to be able to showcase their talent on the world’s greatest sporting stage.

“We are now looking forward to working in partnership with the IOC to develop and implement a Rugby Sevens tournament in Rio that will reach out to new audiences and inspire a new generation of sports fans around the world.”

Golf is the other new sport approved for inclusion in the Olympics in Rio.