SportPesa has announced a Ksh 34.14 million sponsorship package for the 2026 National 7s Circuit, doubling its investment as it seeks to strengthen Kenyan rugby and support the growth of future national team players.

The increased sponsorship marks the fourth consecutive year of SportPesa’s partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) and will support clubs, tournament operations, prize money, fan engagement and match broadcasts.

The six-leg circuit will begin on July 25 in Nakuru with the Prinsloo 7s and conclude with the Christie 7s in September.

Speaking during the announcement, SportPesa Public Relations and Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang said the tournament remains a key foundation for developing rugby talent in the country.

“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,” said Ojwang.

Kenya Rugby Union Chairperson Harriet Okatch said the increased support will help clubs organise the competition, provide players with a platform and strengthen the pathway to national teams.

“Year after year, our partnership with SportPesa has given clubs the resources to organize this circuit, given players a stage to perform, and given our national selectors a talent pool to draw from,” said Okatch.

Defending champions KCB will begin their title defence after a dominant 2025 season, where they won four of the six legs.

They are expected to face strong competition from Strathmore Leos, Kabras Sugar, Menengai Oilers and Kenya Harlequin.

The National 7s Circuit continues to serve as a major talent pipeline for Kenya’s Shujaa, Lionesses and national rugby programmes.