By PHILLIP ORWA
Leading gaming firm SportPesa has announced a record Sh34.14 million sponsorship package for the 2026 SportPesa National 7s Circuit, reaffirming its long-term commitment to strengthening Kenya’s rugby ecosystem and developing the next generation of talent for the national teams.
The enhanced investment, more than double the previous sponsorship kitty of Sh16.5 million, marks the fourth consecutive year that SportPesa has held title sponsorship of the circuit, which has become the principal development competition in Kenyan club rugby.
Of the total sponsorship package, Sh16.14 million will flow directly into the competitive infrastructure of the game, supporting host clubs, Kenya Rugby Union operations, and prize money across all six legs, while the balance will be invested in enhancing fan engagement through improved broadcast production, livestreaming, and matchday experiences.
The six-legged circuit will run from 25 July to 13 September 2026, traversing the country and bringing together Kenya’s finest rugby talent alongside its passionate fan bases.
Speaking during the announcement, SportPesa Public Relations & Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang said: “The National Sevens Circuit is the heartbeat of Kenyan rugby and the foundation upon which future national stars are built. We have watched this competition produce players who went on to become Africa 7s champions, represent Kenya at the Olympic Games, and elevate our standing on the global stage. That is the proof of concept, and we welcome other like-minded partners to join us in supporting this platform.”
Sponsorship Breakdown
The sponsorship package will be allocated as follows:
- Sh6 million will be distributed to the host clubs, with each host club receiving Sh1 million.
- Sh6 million will be allocated to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Secretariat to support tournament organisation and administration.
- Sh9 million will be dedicated to content production and live streaming.
- Sh2 million will be allocated towards circuit fan merchandise.
- Sh9 million will be invested in fan engagement and experiential activities.
Prize Money Breakdown
Division 1 – Men
- Winners: Sh150,000
- 1st Runners-up: Sh75,000
- 2nd Runners-up: Sh40,000
Division 1 – Women
- Winners: Sh100,000
- 1st Runners-up: Sh50,000
- 2nd Runners-up: Sh25,000
Division 2 (Men)
- Winners: Sh70,000
- 1st Runners-up: Sh30,000
Overall Circuit Winners
Men:
- Winners: Sh300,000
- 1st Runners-up: Sh150,000
- 2nd Runners-up: Sh100,000
Women:
- Winners: Sh200,000
- 1st Runners-up: Sh100,000
- 2nd Runners-up: Sh50,000
Over the years, the Kenya Rugby Union has increasingly positioned the circuit as a key feeder system into the national teams, with many players from the event going on to represent Kenya in the iconic red or white jersey through Shujaa, the Kenya Lionesses, and the national 15s programmes.
Harriet Okatch, Chairperson of the Kenya Rugby Union, said: “Year after year, our partnership with SportPesa has given clubs the resources to organise this circuit, given players a stage to perform, and given our national selectors a bottomless talent pool to draw from. The increased investment this season gives us even greater confidence as we continue building sustainable pathways for both Shujaa and the Lionesses.”
The road to the season finale at Christie 7s begins in Nakuru on July 25-26 with the iconic Prinsloo 7s. Defending overall champions KCB Rugby will begin their quest for a sixth circuit crown after a dominant 2025 campaign that saw them amass a record 126 points and win four of the six legs. However, they are expected to face stiff competition from a resurgent chasing pack led by Strathmore Leos, who denied KCB victory at both Prinsloo 7s and Embu 7s last season, alongside traditional powerhouses Kabras Sugar, Menengai Oilers, and Kenya Harlequin.
2026 SportPesa National Sevens Circuit Schedule
- Prinsloo 7s – 25–26 July
- Dala 7s – 1–2 August
- Kabeberi 7s – 15–16 August
- Driftwood 7s – 22–23 August
- Embu 7s – 5–6 September
- Christie 7s – 12–13 September
