Kenya bids to host World Rugby Sevens Series leg in Nairobi

Kenya has officially thrown its hat in the ring to host a leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series, a development that could see Nairobi welcome the global showpiece for the first time in history.

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The news, reported by sports journalist Stephen Ochieng, revealed that the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) confirmed it has submitted a bid to stage one of the Division 2 tournaments in the newly introduced three-tier format that will take effect after the 2025 season.

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Both Shujaa and the Lionesses are set to feature in this division, having secured their places earlier this year.

The bid proposes the newly refurbished Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi as the venue.

The iconic facility, which hosted the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), has a growing reputation as a top-class rugby destination.

In 2023, it successfully staged the World Rugby U20 Trophy, where Kenya’s Chipu finished sixth in the global junior competition.

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Kenya’s hosting credentials are further boosted by the long-standing Safari Sevens tournament, which has consistently attracted elite teams and showcased the country’s vibrant rugby culture.

Over the years, Kenyan fans have also earned a reputation for their passion, regularly turning out in large numbers at international events such as the Vancouver and Dubai Sevens to support Shujaa.

The move comes against the backdrop of World Rugby’s restructuring, which reduced the number of core teams in the top division from 12 to eight beginning in 2026.

Shujaa, who finished ninth in the 2025 season, missed out on core status despite spirited performances. They, however, ensured they remained in the mix by beating Canada 24-5 in the playoffs, while the Lionesses sealed their spot in Division 2 with a dramatic 17-14 win over South Africa.

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At the same time, World Rugby recently unveiled the HSBC SVNS 2026 calendar for Division 1, confirming six regular-season rounds followed by a three-legged World Championship.

Hosts for Division 2 and 3 tournaments are yet to be announced, but the governing body has emphasised the importance of locking in venues for three years to build momentum ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.