World Rugby and Rugby Australia have confirmed that the HSBC Sydney Sevens will not take place next year, set to return in 2023.
With the Series set to resume later in the year, the decision was made to move the Sydney and Hamilton legs due to the ongoing challenges as a result of COVID-19.
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Along with this, the Singapore and Cape Town rounds have been removed from the 2021 calendar, with back-to-back combined Dubai 7s events now set to open the 2022 Series.
Andy Marinos confirmed whilst the decision was disappointing, RA remains committed to hosting the event in 2023.
"It is incredibly disappointing that the Sydney Sevens will not be taking place in 2022," RA CEO Andy Marinos said.
"It has become one of the most exciting events on the World Series calendar, and I want to thank our government partner, Destination NSW and World Rugby for their support and understanding in the matter.
“We will be back in 2023 where we have no doubt the tournament will be another sporting celebration in Sydney."
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin added: “The Olympic Games in Tokyo once again showcased the very best of rugby sevens to a huge global audience as the sport’s fast-paced, action-packed style thrilled fans watching around the globe.
“We now look ahead to the return of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series with upcoming events in Canada and Dubai ahead of what promises to be a very busy and exciting year for the sport in 2022 with the Series followed by the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and climaxing with Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town.
“The truly global nature of the Series has made it difficult to plan with certainty in this uniquely challenging time as the ongoing and dynamic impacts and travel restrictions associated with the Covid-19 pandemic continue to present a challenge to all stakeholders.
"Together with the host organisers we are disappointed not to be able to deliver the planned Series events in Singapore and Cape Town this year, however we look forward to bringing the joy and spirit of rugby sevens back to both cities in 2022. As ever, the health and welfare of players, fans and wider society continues to be our primary concern.
“We are thankful for the strong spirit of collaboration from HSBC and all our partners, who have been unwavering in their support and ensuring that rugby sevens has a bright future."
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RA confirmed they will work with New Zealand Rugby and World Rugby regarding establishing further regional Oceania Sevens tournaments with the support of the Australian government.
This comes as the teams prepare for a stacked 2022 calendar, including the Commonwealth Games in July along with the Rugby World Cup Sevens in September.
