Two key changes introduced ahead of 2026 National 7s Circuit

With just over a month left before the start of the 2026 National 7s Circuit, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has announced two significant changes aimed at broadening participation and strengthening the development pathway within Kenyan rugby.

Download our Mozzart Sport app for more news

The six-legged circuit, which kicks off with the Prinsloo Sevens from Saturday, 25 to Sunday, 26 June, will place a greater emphasis on women's rugby while also introducing age-grade competitions for younger players.

Nairobi set to host another major international rugby sevens tournament

According to National Sevens Circuit Tournament Director Kevin Wambura, five of the six tournaments on the circuit will feature women's competitions, marking a major shift in the structure of the annual series.

"There is a lot of emphasis on the women's side of the game. Out of the six legs, I can confirm that five will be hosting the women's competition. That is the one thing we are doing differently this time," Wambura said.

The move comes as the union continues efforts to grow the women's game following the success of the Kenya Lionesses on both the continental and international stages in recent years.

In addition to the expanded women's competition, KRU is also planning to introduce Under-16 and Under-18 categories as part of a broader strategy to strengthen grassroots rugby and create a sustainable talent pipeline.

How current KCB fullback coached AP Warriors to KRU Championship

Wambura revealed that discussions are ongoing between his office and the Director of Rugby to determine which tournaments will host the junior categories.

"There is also a program for the Under-18 and Under-16, which we are also going to be very intentional about. Discussions are underway between my desk and the Director of Rugby to determine which legs will host the U18 and U16 categories. But ideally, that is the bigger look at how we want the National 7s Circuit to run," he added.

The introduction of the age-grade competitions is expected to give young players a platform to compete alongside some of the country's top clubs while gaining exposure to high-level tournament environments.

The National 7s Circuit brings together leading clubs from across the country in a series that traditionally serves as a key preparation ground for players targeting national team selection.

Collins Injera on whether he would coach Kenya Sevens in future

The 2025 National 7s Circuit season wrapped up with KCB Rugby Club lifting the title after an intense six-leg campaign.

The Bankers amassed 126 points, securing four titles and reaching the final in all six tournaments, matching a record last set by Homeboyz in 2016.

2026 National 7s Circuit dates

Prinsloo Sevens (Nakuru) – July 25-26

Dala 7s (Kisumu) – August 1-2

Kabeberi 7s (Nairobi) – August 15-16

Driftwood Sevens (Mombasa) – August 22-23

Embu 7s (Embu) – September 5-6

Christie Sevens (Nairobi) – September 12-13