Rugby Sevens, along with golf, have been recommended by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board for inclusion in the 2016 Olympic Games.
Here is some of the reaction from players and Unions around the world to this decision:
Paul Treu, South Africa's IRB Sevens World Series winning coach: "This is a very significant day for Rugby and as a former Sevens player and now coach, I want to thank the IRB for their dedication and commitment to spreading this exciting sport to all corners of the globe.
"The important recommendation is further proof that Sevens has now truly established itself as a world sport. The prospect of Olympic participation and the possibility of a medal at the world's biggest sports gathering will have a profound influence on rugby players' careers."
Christy Ringgenberg, USA Women's RWC Sevens captain: "This is exciting news for Rugby Sevens and especially the Women's Game. We watch the Olympics to see great things happen, to see athletes from diverse backgrounds succeed at their passion.
"Sevens captures the spirit of the Olympics. It is a game in which anything can happen in a matter of seconds and it is truly anyone's game to win. Ingenuity and athleticism are given the opportunity to conquer over power and experience, giving smaller countries and younger programmes a chance to showcase their talent."
Lee Beach, Wales' Rugby World Cup Sevens winning captain: "I have represented Wales in Sevens at the Commonwealth Games and now the Rugby World Cup but to represent Great Britain at the Olympics would be the stuff of dreams.
"Playing for the British and Irish Lions is the top of the ladder for the 15-a-side game and the Olympics would be the pinnacle of the Sevens game. I think everyone would benefit - rugby union, the fans and the Olympic Games."
Rob Andrew, RFU Elite Rugby Director: "We realise that this is just the first step and the final decision rests with the IOC Committee. We hope they will see that Rugby would be good for the Olympics and the Olympics would be good for rugby.
"Rugby Sevens is short, sharp and entertaining and reflects the Olympics' core values of sportsmanship, friendship, respect and discipline. In doing so Rugby can play a role in achieving the IOC's mission statement of reaching out to young people."
John O'Neill, ARU Managing Director and CEO: "This is wonderful news and a great day for the sport. Obviously the Executive Board's recommendation still requires ratification but there is naturally great excitement for us surrounding this announcement.
"There is a lot of cache attached to being part of the Olympic movement.
"From a Rugby perspective, I trust we will have cause for major celebrations in October because offering our elite players the opportunity to also become Olympians would be unforgettable.
"The Olympic Games is the largest sporting stage in the world. Our players have already indicated they would treasure the opportunity to contend for an Olympic gold medal, and what a spectacle to see the best players in the international game, both men and women, competing at the Games."
David Pickering, WRU Chairman: "Rugby Sevens is an extremely exciting and broadcast friendly sport that is exhilarating for both spectators and television audiences. Sevens has a young following and a massive travelling fan base which would deliver a vibrant and passionate atmosphere during the Games.
"The inclusion of Rugby Sevens in the Olympic Games would also offer medal potential for smaller nations - many of whom have been increasingly successful in the IRB World Sevens Series - bringing a new Olympic dream alive for many of them."
