It is now hoped that Argentina will make its debut in the Series in 2013-2014 instead. 

The decision was taken by the Unión Argentina de Rugby (UAR) following consultation with the IRB. 

"The IRB understands and fully supports what was a very difficult decision for the UAR," said Bernard Lapasset, chairman of the IRB. 

"They have kept us fully informed throughout the review process and we believe that the decision they have taken is in the best interests of the Union, Argentinean rugby and the HSBC Sevens World Series."

With rugby sevens due to make its debut on the Olympic programme at Rio in 2016 the IRB are keen to have a major event in South America to help promote the sport and aid its development.

"The Union is dedicated to the delivery of a memorable and successful Series event that showcases rugby in South America," said Lapasset.

"By extending the delivery timescale we can work in partnership with the UAR and all stakeholders to ensure that the event in 2013/14 achieves all strategic aims, is beneficial for rugby in Argentina and South America and secures its place on the Series as one of the must see events."

Argentina are South America's top rugby playing nation and the IRB are trying to help them compete against the leading nations.

They are due to make their debut in an expanded Tri Nations tournament in 2015, alongside Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. 

Luis Castillo, President of the UAR, is confident that the delay in Argentina's debut on the HSBC World Seven Series will result in a better event when it appears in 2013-2014

"This has been a difficult decision to take as we are excited about our HSBC Sevens World Series hosting opportunity," said Luis Castillo, President of the UAR. 

"However, the logistical challenges are too significant to successfully deliver an event this year that is beneficial for all stakeholders and we would like to thank the IRB for their support and understanding in this matter.

"We are now all focused on ensuring that all the processes are in place to ensure that our debut in 2013/14 is a successful one."

Agustín Pichot, Argentinia's former captain who is now an IRB Council member, is confident that the postponement will help ensure the event is up to standard when it is held. 

"We have worked tirelessly to deliver the outstanding event for teams, fans and Argentinean rugby," he said.

"However, we must ensure that player preparation time is paramount and unfortunately we cannot guarantee the logistics that achieve this important consideration this year.

"However, we are determined to resolve these issues in partnership with the IRB ahead of next year's tournament with a considerable lead-in time and in the meantime look forward to our rugby championship debut."

Argentina's exit from the Sevens World Series calendar means it will now comprise nine rounds beginning in Gold Coast on October 13 and 14, before concluding in London on May 11 and 12 next year. 

The highlight of the season, however, will be the World Cup Sevens tournament from June 28 until 30 - the last time the event will be held before it is scrapped so that the Olympics will be the pinnacle of the sport.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
February 2012: IRB expands HSBC Sevens World Series ahead of Rio 2016