The international rugby community is mourning the loss of Warren Abrahams, the head coach of the Belgium national women’s sevens team, who passed away suddenly in Nairobi at the age of 42. Abrahams was in Kenya leading his squad at the 2025 Safari Sevens tournament.

The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) confirmed the tragic news on Sunday, October 12th, stating that the coach died on Friday, October 10th.

In a statement, the KRU mourned him as a “passionate professional” with an unwavering “dedication to the game.” The Belgian Rugby Federation echoed the sorrow, confirming the death in a statement that acknowledged the unexpected loss and detailed immediate action taken to support the players.

A Pioneering Career

The South Africa-born coach had a wide-ranging and impactful career across various formats and nations.

Wales Women’s Team: In a historic appointment in November 2020, Abrahams became the first black national coach in Welsh rugby history when he took over the Wales Women’s national team.

International Experience: He previously served as an assistant coach for the USA Women’s Sevens team, contributing to elite women’s rugby at the international level.

Talent Development: Abrahams also spent time in the English rugby system, working with the England Men’s Sevens and Harlequins’ academy and Sevens squads, where he was known for developing young talent.

Abrahams was highly regarded for his coaching philosophy, known for creating high-performance environments and emphasizing mental strength. Following the coach’s passing, the Belgium national team has returned home and is set to receive psychological support.

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