Rugby Sevens Reimagined: World Rugby’s Bold Plan for Global Growth
World Rugby is embarking on a significant overhaul of its HSBC SVNS competition, aiming to boost financial stability and expand the reach of rugby sevens as it builds towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The changes center around a new three-tier structure designed to create a more dynamic and accessible pathway for teams and fans alike.
A Three-Tier System: From Regional Play to World Championship Glory
The revamped model introduces HSBC SVNS 3, HSBC SVNS 2, and the HSBC SVNS Series, culminating in the HSBC SVNS World Championship. This tiered approach allows teams to progress from regional competition to the top level within a single year, fostering greater competition and opportunity.
The inaugural HSBC SVNS 3 Series took place in Dubai in January 2026, with South Africa’s women and Canada’s men emerging as champions and securing promotion to HSBC SVNS 2. Argentina’s women and Belgium’s men also earned promotion as runners-up.
HSBC SVNS 2: The Stepping Stone to Elite Competition
HSBC SVNS 2 will be hosted in Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo in February and March 2026. The top four men’s and women’s teams from this series will earn promotion to the prestigious HSBC SVNS World Championship Series.
Participating teams in HSBC SVNS 2 include Argentina, Brazil, China, Kenya, South Africa, and Spain for the women, and Belgium, Canada, Germany, Kenya, USA, and Uruguay for the men.
The HSBC SVNS Series: Where the World’s Best Collide
The HSBC SVNS Series will feature six iconic global destinations: Dubai, Cape Town, Singapore, Perth, Vancouver, and New York. These tournaments will showcase the world’s best sevens teams in high-intensity competition.
The 2026 HSBC SVNS Series will feature Australia, Canada, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, and the USA in the women’s competition, and Argentina, Australia, Fiji, France, Great Britain, New Zealand, South Africa, and Spain in the men’s.
HSBC SVNS World Championship: A Dramatic Finale
For the first time, the HSBC SVNS World Championship will be a three-destination event, featuring the top 24 teams (12 men’s and 12 women’s) competing for the title. The journey begins in Hong Kong, followed by new additions to the calendar: Valladolid and Bordeaux in Europe.
Olympic Impact: LA 2028 and Beyond
The changes are strategically timed to build momentum leading up to the LA 2028 Olympics, with Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, confirmed as the venue for both the World Championship and the Olympic rugby sevens competition. This provides athletes with a valuable opportunity to experience the Olympic venue beforehand.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Rugby Sevens?
This evolved model addresses shifting media and sports trends, aiming to enhance appeal for both fans and potential hosts. The integrated tournaments will feature equal participation fees and representation for men’s and women’s teams, promoting gender equality within the sport.
Pro Tip:
Maintain an eye on the HSBC SVNS website (https://www.svns.com/en/fixtures-and-results/svns) for the full fixture list and the latest updates on team participation and tournament schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is HSBC SVNS? HSBC SVNS is the official name for World Rugby’s global sevens series, now structured across three tiers.
- Where will the 2026 HSBC SVNS World Championship be held? The championship will be held in Hong Kong, Valladolid (Spain), and Bordeaux (France).
- How can teams qualify for the HSBC SVNS Series? Teams can progress through the HSBC SVNS 2 and HSBC SVNS 3 tiers based on their performance.
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