A groundbreaking seating system at the National Stadium brings fans just 12.7m from the pitch for an enhanced Singapore Rugby Sevens experience.
SINGAPORE: Rugby enthusiasts at this year’s expanded Singapore Rugby Sevens are enjoying a whole new level of immersion, thanks to a pioneering moving tier system at the National Stadium. This innovation pushes 24,000 lower-tier seats 12.7m closer to the action, transforming the spectator experience.
The system involves moving 1,500 tonnes of structure to reposition nearly half of the stadium’s 55,000 seats. Support frameworks ensure stability, while concrete slabs fill the space left behind to create an additional concourse area.
These upgraded seats hover over the stadium’s track, typically reserved for athletic events, allowing fans to get closer to the field without compromising safety.
The Tournament
The Singapore Rugby Sevens, which kicked off on Friday (May 3), runs for three days this year instead of the usual two. It serves as the season finale of the 2023-24 World Rugby Sevens Series, determining league champions.
This year also marks the debut of a women’s competition, with 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams competing for titles, adding an exciting new dimension to the event.
Behind the Scenes
Preparing the stadium for the Sevens tournament required a week of meticulous planning and coordination. According to Mr. Yazed Osman, group head of events and placemaking at Kallang Alive Sport Management, safety and security were top priorities during the conversion process, which followed a packed schedule of concerts and sporting events.
“While the challenges were numerous, our team leveraged its expertise to ensure a seamless transition for both event organizers and spectators,” said Mr. Osman.
Boosting Rugby’s Profile
Singapore Rugby Union general manager Sidney Kumar hopes the inclusion of women’s teams will inspire young girls to pick up rugby.
“The Singapore Sevens plays a vital role in our rugby ecosystem,” he explained. “Our long-term dream is to see one of our teams represented on the Sevens circuit.”
Revolutionary Turf
The tournament also features Stadium Zoysia, a durable turf grass first trialed at last year’s event. This grass has proven to last up to 40% longer thanks to the National Stadium’s favorable microclimate. It will also be used for the National School Games Rugby A and B Division Cup finals.
World Rugby Sevens general manager Sam Pinder expressed excitement about the upgraded pitch and seating arrangements.
“With fans closer to the action, the energy in the stadium will be unmatched,” he said. “This year promises to be a monumental season, especially with the Paris Olympics on the horizon.”
From cutting-edge seating systems to enhanced turf technology, the Singapore Rugby Sevens is setting new standards for the fan experience, solidifying its place as a premier rugby event on the global stage.
