The IRB said the 2007-08 Series was televised by a 33 international broadcasters in 13 different languages in 135 countries. According to the IRB’s production and distribution partner ProActive Television, the potential global cumulative reach was 556 million, up 24 million on the previous year. Live coverage again increased to 952 hours, while total television coverage - encompassing the popular delayed-live format - increased by 32 per cent to 1945 hours.
IRB Chairman, Bernard Lapasset, said: “The continued growth in the TV audience for the IRB Sevens World Series reflects the worldwide popularity of Rugby Sevens.
“Sevens is a sporting spectacle, it always provides action, world class players and packed stadia at international locations around the world, making it popular to both broadcasters and Rugby fans alike. It is Rugby in its purest form and of course it can be played in any sports stadium and so does need an expensive purpose built arena. Rugby Sevens also provides the opportunity for smaller nations and those who don't traditionally feature at the top of medal tables to win a medal”.
Rugby's only international Grand Prix-style event, the IRB Sevens World Series comprised eight tournaments in Dubai, South Africa, New Zealand, USA, Hong Kong, Australia, England and Scotland. The Series will celebrate its tenth anniversary when the 2008/09 Series kicks off in Dubai in late November.
