US sevens moves to Vegas

The United States leg of the International Rugby Board world sevens series has been moved to Las Vegas.

San Diego has hosted the US tournament for the past five years but organisers today announced a multi-year commitment, beginning on February 13-14 next year.

The tournament traditionally falls a week after the New Zealand leg of the series, in Wellington.

IRB chief executive Mike Miller said sevens rugby and entertainment capital Las Vegas were a perfect fit.

"Sevens is great sport but also a great party and Vegas is obviously a great party town, so I see the two complimenting each other perfectly," Miller said in a statement.

Miller was a leading voice in rugby's Olympic lobbying, resulting in sevens last week being officially confirmed on the schedule for the 2016 and 2020 Games.

"It gives rugby legitimacy in the USA, everyone wants the opportunity to win an Olympic medal," Miller said.

"Governments put their weight behind Olympic sports, individuals dream about winning a medal, there will be more money, more facilities, more coaching, awareness in general for rugby in the USA.

"Hopefully the game will continue its growth in the States and this will help accelerate it."

- NZPA