Kenya Bags Hosting Rights for The Opening Leg of HSBC SVNS 2

By Kibaki Muthamia on November 27, 2025

World Rugby has finally dropped the news we’ve all been manifesting: Kenya will host the opening leg of the HSBC SVNS 2.

Nairobi is set to make history on 14th–15th February 2026.

For the first time ever, the global sevens circuit kicks off right here in East Africa – our city, our fans, our noise!

This isn’t just another tournament.

This is Kenya being stamped boldly onto the world rugby calendar, front and centre, first whistle, first try, first roar of the season.

The Gloval Itinerary Starts in Nairobi

Kenya leads the three-leg HSBC SVNS 2 lineup, followed by Brazil and Uruguay.

Meaning when the world tunes in to see how the season begins… they’ll be seeing Nairobi first.

The Registered Teams

Men’s Division

Only four teams – but all hungry for early promotion momentum:

  • Kenya
  • USA
  • Uruguay
  • Germany

Expect high-octane rugby, brutal intensity, and the kind of talent showcase that shapes the rest of the season.

These boys aren’t coming to jog – they’re coming to stake territory.

Women’s Division

  • Kenya (Lionesses)
  • Brazil
  • China
  • Spain
  • The matchups are spicy, the stakes are serious, and the home support? Electric.

The Lionesses will be chasing dominance in front of their people.

Kenya Rugby Women’s Team ‘The Lionesses’ in a past fixture (Image: Files)

Kenya Rugby Union Shows Pride & Purpose

Kenya Rugby Union Chairperson Harriet Okach captured the moment perfectly – pride in the achievement:

“Kenya Rugby Union is honoured by the trust World Rugby has placed in us… Hosting this event will strengthen our global presence, expand commercial potential, and inspire the next generation of players.

We are committed to delivering a world-class event that showcases elite rugby, celebrates our fans, and highlights Kenya’s unique cultural vibrancy”.

Fans, Get Ready! 

Work has already begun to turn this into a full-blown rugby festival – one that will pull in fans, athletes, dreamers, hustlers, corporate suits, street legends, and everyone in between.

Match schedules, ticket details, fan engagement activities, and logistics will drop soon.