The 2025 HSBC Sevens Vancouver Tournament promises to deliver thrilling rugby action as it returns for its 10th edition from February 21 to 23, 2025, at BC Place. This celebrated event gathers the world’s elite men’s and women’s rugby teams, all vying for championship titles and glory on Canadian soil.
On the shores of Sunset Beach, captains from the top 12 men’s and women’s teams were welcomed by local Indigenous representatives, including Mike Billy Sr. from the Squamish Nation. The gathering emphasized the importance of Indigenous culture, as the captains learned how traditional canoes symbolize identity and belonging.
This year holds special significance for the Canada Women’s Sevens Team, who return home for the first time since their historic silver medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics. They enter the tournament with great expectations, anchored by notable players like Charity Williams, who is on the verge of achieving her 100th career try. The Canadian women will compete in Pool A against powerhouse teams like Australia, Brazil, and Spain.
The mood among the players is confident and upbeat. Piper Logan, captain of the Canadian team, expressed enthusiasm about being back at BC Place, stating, “We love Vancouver SVNS; it’s our favorite tournament of the year. There’s been lots of traction with rugby here, and to have competition at home is really important.”
Following the thrilling women’s matches, men’s teams will also engage in significant competition to claim the title. With teams like Fiji, Argentina, and Spain currently occupying the top standings, the stakes are high. Fiji, the reigning Olympic champions, aim to maintain strong performances after achieving success with two medals this season. They will face tough contenders, including Uruguay and the USA, as the tournament progresses.
Argentina’s captain, Santiago Mare, reflected on their growth and determination heading to Vancouver, saying, “We are very happy to be back, and we expect to enjoy the tournament.” Coordination and strategy will be key for the teams aiming for championship titles.
Aside from thrilling matches, the Vancouver Sevens Festival will feature various attractions. Fans can expect global culinary offerings, live music, and interactive activities, including Vancouver’s first competitive axe-throwing competition. Celebratory light installations highlighting rugby will decorate the city, augmenting the festive atmosphere.
Another highlight of the tournament is the design of the gold medals, created by acclaimed Coast Salish artist Chris Sparrow. The medal showcases the cultural heritage of the Coast Salish people, incorporating the image of an eagle holding a rugby ball—a powerful symbol of strength, wisdom, and resilience.
Sparrow, belonging to the Musqueam First Nation, aims to honor the region’s history through this design. He stated, “The eagle embodies the qualities of champion athletes.” This thoughtful fusion of art and sport reflects the tournament’s ethos, celebrating both athletic excellence and cultural significance.
With fixtures scheduled for all three days, rugby fans can expect over 70 matches packed with high-energy, fast-paced action. The tournament kicks off with the pool matches starting on February 21 at 11:18 AM local time, continuing through to the finals on Sunday.
The final stages are scheduled to ignite excitement as the men’s and women’s finals will be held at 5:05 PM and 5:41 PM local time, respectively, ensuring the event concludes with thrilling climax.
For fans who can’t attend, numerous outlets will broadcast the tournament live. Coverage is available through TSN, TNT Sports, and streaming platforms like RugbyPassTV, helping reach audiences around the world.
Following the extensive preparation and the historic significance of this year’s event, the HSBC Sevens Vancouver Tournament stands poised to be both a competitive and cultural showcase. With the spotlight on Canada’s teams and the infusion of Indigenous heritage throughout the festivities, the tournament will leave lasting memories for players and fans alike.
Captains, coaches, and athletes from around the world eagerly anticipate the Vancouver Sevens, embracing the atmosphere and the opportunities to compete at the highest levels surrounded by enthusiastic crowds—a true highlight on the sport’s international calendar.