BY PHILLIP ORWA
The third leg of the 2025 National Sevens Circuit heads to the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi this weekend for the Christie Sevens, with Kenya Breweries Limited’s flagship brand Tusker confirming a Sh3 million sponsorship boost for the tournament.
Tusker will serve as the official alcoholic beverage and entertainment partner for the tournament, continuing its role from the Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa and Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru. Half of the sponsorship will go towards tournament logistics for the hosts Kenya Harlequin, with the remainder directed to enhancing fan experiences and powering the official afterparty.
Kenya Harlequins Chairman Victor Sudi welcomed Tusker’s continued support, saying it would help deliver a high-quality tournament for players and fans.
“We are grateful to Tusker for coming on board as a partner for this year’s Christie Sevens. Preparations are in the final stages, and we are ready to host teams and fans from across the country.
Support like this allows us to focus on delivering great rugby on the pitch and a vibrant fan atmosphere off it. Nairobi rugby fans can expect two days of exciting matches, strong competition and an unforgettable experience at the RFUEA Grounds,” he said.
Earlier in the week, Kenya Rugby Union released the pool fixtures for the tournament, which will be played over the weekend on August 16 and 17.
In Division One, Strathmore Leos headline Pool A alongside hosts Kenya Harlequin, Zetech Oaks and MSC Rugby. Pool B features Catholic Monks, Nakuru RFC, Impala RFC and MMUST. Menengai Oilers lead Pool C, joined by defending champions Kabras Sugar, Daystar Falcons and Uganda’s Ruga Ruga Select. Pool D has KCB Rugby facing Mwamba RFC, Nondescripts and KU Blak Blad.
Division Two will feature 20 teams divided into five pools. Pool A has Kisumu RFC, Kisii Polytechnic, JKUAT Cougars and Masaku Rugby. Pool B has Homeboyz RFC, Kabarak University, TUM Marines and Stormers RFC. Pool C features AP Warriors, Stallions Rugby, Sigalagala Polytechnic and Cooperative University. Pool D includes Embu RFC, Kiambu Rugby, Northern Suburbs and Eagles Rugby, while Pool E has South Coast Pirates, Ngong Warriors, NYS Spades and Rongai Morans.
The women’s competition will be split into two tiers. Tier One’s Pool A will feature Mwamba RFC, Kenya Harlequin, Northern Suburbs and Impala RFC. Tier Two’s Pool B includes NYS Ladies, Ruck It Rugby, Meru Ladies and Rongo University. All teams will play three pool matches before progressing to the semi-finals and finals.
Speaking during the announcement, Tusker Senior Shopper Manager, Sarah Kiritu, said the partnership builds on the success of the first two legs.
“This year’s National Sevens Circuit has already given us unforgettable moments, from the energy of Driftwood in Mombasa to the passion of Prinsloo in Nakuru. Now, all roads lead to Nairobi for the Christie Sevens, an event with deep roots in our rugby culture. We’re proud to continue our support as both a sporting partner and an entertainment partner, ensuring fans enjoy not just the rugby, but the full matchday experience,” she said.
Fans attending the Christie Sevens can expect two days of competitive rugby and entertainment at the Tusker Village, which will feature live music, activations and the official afterparty. The National Sevens Circuit will continue after Christie with the Embu Sevens, Kabeberi Sevens and Dala Sevens as teams battle for the overall title.
