Kenya to host opening leg of HSBC SVNS 2 in historic rugby milestone
Scheduled for February 14-15, 2026, the Nairobi tournament will launch the second season of the restructured global sevens circuit, bringing elite international rugby to Kenyan soil and placing the country firmly on the global rugby stage.
World Rugby has officially confirmed that Kenya will host the opening leg of the HSBC SVNS 2, marking a historic moment for the nation and the East African region.
Scheduled for February 14-15, 2026, the Nairobi tournament will launch the second season of the restructured global sevens circuit, bringing elite international rugby to Kenyan soil and placing the country firmly on the global rugby stage.
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The announcement establishes Kenya as the first stop on the three-leg HSBC SVNS 2 calendar, ahead of the subsequent rounds in Brazil and Uruguay.
The Nairobi event will feature both men’s and women’s competitions, with Kenya, the USA, Uruguay, and Germany set to contest the men’s division, while the women’s competition will include the Kenya Lionesses, Brazil, China, and Spain. Both categories promise high-intensity action as teams chase early promotion momentum and look to begin the season strongly.
Kenya Rugby Union Chairperson Harriet Okach expressed immense pride following the confirmation.
“Kenya Rugby Union is honoured by the trust World Rugby has placed in us to host the HSBC SVNS 2. This milestone presents a significant opportunity for Kenya Rugby and the nation at large. Hosting this event will strengthen our global presence, expand commercial potential, and inspire the next generation of players," he said.
“We are committed to delivering an exceptional, world-class event that showcases elite rugby, celebrates our fans, and highlights the unique cultural vibrancy of Kenya. We look forward to welcoming the global rugby family to Nairobi for an unforgettable SVNS experience.”
KRU Chief Executive Officer Thomas Odundo echoed the excitement, saying, “We're extremely delighted and privileged to have been selected to host the first leg of HSBC Sevens 2. It is indeed a great honour to have been selected, and we would like to welcome everybody from near and far to the city of Nairobi for the event.”
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