Kenya Sevens Fight for SVNS Return After Relegation to Division Two

Kenya Sevens, the Shujaa, face one of the most challenging periods in their rugby sevens history. After finishing in the bottom four of the 2024-25 SVNS season — their best result being a silver medal finish at the Singapore leg — the team was relegated from the main series and now competes in SVNS Division Two for the 2025-26 season.

The relegation stung deeply. Kenya Sevens have been a staple of the World Series circuit for decades, known for their exciting, fearless style of play that made them fan favourites globally. Finishing ninth in the 2024-25 season with 36 points was not enough to retain their core team status, and the team now faces the task of earning promotion back to the top tier.

In Division Two, the Shujaa are competing against other relegated and aspiring nations for a chance to return to the main SVNS series. The format requires consistent performances across multiple tournaments, and Kenya's experience at the highest level should give them an edge — but nothing is guaranteed in the competitive world of sevens rugby.

Off the field, the coaching situation has seen changes. The team competes with a point to prove, knowing that Kenya's rugby fans expect a swift return to the main stage. The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow also loom as a major target, offering another platform for Kenyan sevens rugby to shine on the global stage.

For Kenyan rugby fans, this is a period that demands patience and support. The Shujaa have overcome setbacks before and their talent pool remains strong. The road back to the main SVNS series will be tough, but if any team knows how to play with heart and flair under pressure, it is Kenya Sevens.