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It has been confirmed that the Rugby Union of Russia has expressed an interest to tender for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013, according to the IRB. Following a review of their strategic operations, the Union have decided to focus their efforts on developing initiatives for Rugby Sevens in an extensive drive geared towards reaching out to new markets within Russia.

The focal point will of course be Rugby Sevens’ showpiece tournament and the Union has confirmed that it has the full support from the Russian Government in its quest to host a major international rugby tournament.

“Rugby World Cup Limited is delighted that the Rugby Union of Russia has expressed an interest to host Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013. The tournament is firmly established as a major event on the world sporting calendar, attracting sell-out crowds and a global television audience of over half a billion,” said RWCL Chairman Bernard Lapasset.

“Rugby Sevens is a major driving force behind the continued growth of the men’s and women’s Game around the world, particularly in new markets and we are excited that the Rugby Union of Russia views the hosting of the tournament and a focus on Sevens development will provide a major stimulus for growth within Russia.”

Russia’s desire to throws itself wholeheartedly into the sport is an indicator that the Union is also eyeing up potential Olympic involvement. If sevens were to receive a call up to the Games, the sport would be placed straight into the educational curriculum and receive significant financial backing. Although Russia's bid to host the 2009 RWC Sevens was turned down in favour for Dubai, an opportunity to unlock the country’s obvious potential might be too good to turn down for the IRB.

In order to concentrate all its resources on the bid, the Union has also confirmed that it will not continue with its tender for Rugby World Cup 2019. The Union had been one of eight Unions bidding to host the tournament, but following the strategic review the Union has committed to bidding for single-city events, including Rugby World Cup Sevens.

“After analysing all the aspects involved in the organisation of Rugby World Cup 2019, the Rugby Union of Russia has decided to withdraw its intention to tender,” said Rugby Union of Russia President Viatcheslav Kopiev.

“We had the full backing of the Russian Government who were committed to guaranteeing the £96 million minimum tournament fee for 2019, but the Union believes that the best focus of our resources for growing the Game within Russia is the identification of single-city tournaments and the role of Sevens in attracting new men, women and children to Rugby.”

“Tendering for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2013 is a natural step after our bid for the 2009 tournament and we are also delighted to have received backing from the highest levels of Government,” added Kopiev.