With the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon, the rugby sevens tournament is set to deliver high-octane action. Teams from around the globe are ready to chase the elusive gold medal, and this year’s competition is particularly fierce. Let’s dive into the top contenders and their chances of striking gold.
In the men’s tournament, Argentina is emerging as a frontrunner. They have been dominant in the 2023-24 World Rugby Sevens Series (SVNS), showcasing a balanced team with a blend of speed and power. Their recent form makes them a formidable force on the sevens circuit.
Hot on their heels is France, the host nation. The home advantage at the Stade de France, coupled with their impressive victory in the SVNS grand final, positions them well for a podium finish. The French crowd will surely be the extra player on the field for them.
Ireland, consistently strong performers, find themselves in a challenging Pool A with heavyweights like New Zealand and South Africa. Their grit and resilience make them a team to watch. Fiji, the two-time defending Olympic champions, are always a threat. Despite mixed performances recently, their flair and ability to produce magical moments keep them in the running.
Rounding out the top five are New Zealand, the All Blacks Sevens. Known for their tactical prowess and robust style, they remain significant contenders despite some recent inconsistencies.
On the women’s side, New Zealand’s Black Ferns Sevens are the team to beat. Their victory in the 2023-24 SVNS and their previous Olympic gold in Tokyo underline their dominance in women’s sevens rugby. Australia follows closely, with Charlotte Caslick at the helm. The Australians have been exceptional, winning the World Series and showing formidable form as they head into the Olympics. They face Ireland, Great Britain, and South Africa in Pool B, which promises exciting matchups.
France’s women’s team, buoyed by the home crowd, has shown recent performances and strategic gameplay that make them serious contenders for a medal. The USA women’s team and Canada round out the top five, both showing flashes of brilliance and potential to spring surprises on the bigger teams.
The Olympic Rugby Sevens in Paris is set to be a captivating affair, filled with speed, skill, and a dash of unpredictability. Traditional rugby powerhouses and rising stars alike will battle it out, ensuring fans are treated to some thrilling matches. Whether it’s the men’s or the women’s tournament, the stage is set for unforgettable moments and potential upsets as teams vie for Olympic glory.