World Rugby President Bernard Lapasset welcomes the approval by the IOC membership at the 127th IOC Session in Monaco of the 40 recommendations that comprise Olympic Agenda 2020, a strategic roadmap for the future of the Olympic Movement.
Lapasset said: “This is a significant moment for the Olympic Movement and World Rugby is delighted to have contributed to the Olympic Agenda 2020 process. We fully support the recommendations and look forward to working with the IOC to bring them to life.
“As a modern, thriving sport, rugby is acutely aware of the importance of youth, sustainability and credibility in an increasingly congested entertainment and sporting landscape and World Rugby is committed to living the recommendations and sharing relevant expertise as we build towards our Olympic Games return at Rio 2016.”
“We are excited about rugby sevens at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, and the adoption of Agenda 2020 heightens our enthusiasm. We continue to work in full partnership with the IOC and the organising committee to ensure that the men’s and women’s competitions bring new young audiences to the Olympic family and deliver compelling action and a unique festival atmosphere, that is great for the Olympics, great for rugby and great for Brazil.”