Rugby sevens is a condensed version of rugby union, featuring seven players on each team rather than the usual fifteen. The game is played on a standard rugby field, but matches are significantly shorter, with each half lasting only seven minutes. This results in high-intensity action and often high-scoring games. The reduced number of players and the abbreviated match time emphasise speed, agility, and strategic play, making rugby sevens a thrilling spectacle.

The objective of rugby sevens is the same as in traditional rugby: to score points by carrying the ball over the opponent's try line or by kicking it between the goalposts. A try, worth five points, is scored when a player grounds the ball in the in-goal area. After a try, the scoring team has the opportunity to add two more points with a conversion kick. Additionally, teams can score points through penalty goals and drop goals, each worth three points.

The structure of the Olympic rugby sevens tournament is designed to showcase the sport's rapid pace and unpredictability. Teams are divided into pools, and each team plays every other team in their pool. The top teams from each pool, along with the best-performing runners-up, advance to the knockout stages. This format ensures that every match is crucial, as teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals, semifinals, and ultimately, the final.

Rugby sevens made its Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games, marking the return of rugby to the Olympics after a 92-year absence. Rugby union had previously been included in four Olympic Games from 1900 to 1924. The reintroduction of rugby, in its sevens format, was met with widespread enthusiasm, and the tournament in Rio was a resounding success. Fiji's men's team and Australia's women's team made history by winning the first-ever Olympic gold medals in rugby sevens.

The inclusion of rugby sevens, which will be played at the Stade de France, has had a significant impact on the sport's global popularity. The fast-paced, entertaining nature of sevens has attracted new fans and participants, helping to grow rugby's presence worldwide. Moreover, the Olympic platform has provided a stage for emerging rugby nations to compete against established powerhouses, contributing to the sport's development.

In preparation for the Olympics, teams undergo rigorous training and participate in the World Rugby Sevens Series, an annual series of international tournaments. This series allows teams to hone their skills, develop strategies, and gain valuable experience against top-tier competition. The World Rugby Sevens Series also serves as a qualifying pathway for the Olympics, with teams earning points based on their performance throughout the season.

As rugby sevens continues to evolve, its presence at the Olympics remains a highlight for both players and fans. The sport's blend of athleticism, strategy, and excitement makes it a perfect fit for the Olympic stage. With each edition of the Games, rugby sevens further cements its status as a must-watch event, showcasing the best of rugby's thrilling and dynamic nature. Whether you're a longtime rugby enthusiast or new to the sport, the Olympic rugby sevens tournament promises an unforgettable experience filled with drama, skill, and passion.

The rugby sevens Paris schedule can be viewed here.