The Vancouver Sevens, fourth stage of the world 7s circuit (February 23 to 25), has never seen such a large crowd.
The organizers announced that Saturday was almost full, with almost all of the 54,500 seats at BC Place being taken.
A popular success certainly linked to the great debut of Antoine Dupont in the Olympic discipline, the little brother of rugby union.
For comparison, a total of 66,700 spectators attended the three days of competition last year...
The draw has been made and the Blues of 7 find themselves in a tough group, along with Australia, the United States and Samoa.
And, due to the time difference, we will have to stay up late in France to watch Antoine Dupont's great debut in the Olympic discipline.
Read alsoTop 14: Dupont changes position with Toulouse before leaving at 7
France Télévisions’ bet
If France Télévisions took a chance and acquired the rights to the Canadian tournament (then that of Los Angeles the following weekend), the kick-offs of the first three meetings risk deterring some of the curious.
The entry into contention of the French team, against the United States, is scheduled for Friday evening at 11:36 p.m. (French time).
The second match, against Samoa, will take place during the night from Friday to Saturday, at… 4:40 a.m.
Finally, the last group match of France 7, against Australia, is scheduled for Saturday February 24, at 10:49 p.m.
Depending on their ranking at the end of the group stage, the Blues will continue the competition or not.
For information, the semi-finals are scheduled for Sunday February 25 from 9:43 p.m.
The final will take place on the night of Sunday to Monday, at 2:23 a.m.