Rugby's delight at 2016 Olympic sports decision

RUGBY has taken a big step closer to securing a place at the Olympics - 92 years after it last appeared at the 1924 Games.

DELIGHT: IRB officials highlighted the popularity of Sevens and the growth of the women's game (Getty Images)

Rugby sevens and golf have been shortlisted for a vote of the International Olympic Committee's membership later this year during the IOC's Executive Board meeting in Berlin.

They will need a simple majority of members of secure their Olympic status.

The decision was welcomed by International Rugby Board president Bernard Lapasset - although it means disappointment for five sports who didn't make the cut - baseball, karate, roller sports, softball and squash.

"We would like to thank the IOC Executive Board for selecting rugby sevens from what are seven strong and diverse sports," said Lapasset.

"We recognise the significance of this milestone in our campaign but are also mindful that the ultimate decision rests with the IOC members when they meet in Copenhagen on October 9 2009.

"The Olympic Games would be the pinnacle of the sport for all our athletes and the rugby family, providing the opportunity for the best men's and women's players in the world to showcase their talent on the world's greatest sporting stage.

"The international rugby community is united behind rugby sevens' campaign and we now look ahead to October."