War in Iraq and the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in
South-East Asia has disrupted the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens following
the decision of two of Europe's leading nations to withdraw from the
tournament, due to start in one week (28 March 2003).

The International Rugby Board have informed the Hong Kong Rugby Football
Union, organisers of the Sevens, that Italy and France have withdrawn from
this year's tournament.
"We are of course, disappointed that France and Italy have withdrawn," said
Allan Payne, executive director of the HKRFU. "We continue to liaise with
other participating teams, who all indicate that they will be travelling to
Hong Kong."
New Zealand, who currently lead to IRB Sevens series, have yet to confirm
they will be attending the tournament due to the current global instability
and threat to safety.