World Rugby Announces HSBC SVNS 2026 Schedule, Expanding Global Sevens Format
World Rugby has unveiled the destinations and dates for the HSBC SVNS 2026 Series, the premier level of a newly structured three-division global sevens competition. The revamped model aims to broaden rugby’s international presence and provide stability for teams and host cities, securing events for the next three years. Dates for HSBC SVNS 2 and 3 will be announced separately.
The 2026 Series will consist of six regular-season rounds culminating in a three-event HSBC SVNS World Championship to determine qualification for the 2027 top tier.This structure creates a pathway for emerging nations to compete on the world stage through regional qualifying tournaments.
The format emphasizes gender parity, featuring combined men’s and women’s events at every round with equal prize money.
2026 Season Schedule:
HSBC SVNS Series: Dubai (November 29-30, 2025), Cape Town (December 6-7, 2025), Singapore (January 31-February 1, 2026), australia (February 7-8, 2026 – location to be announced), Vancouver (March 7-8, 2026), USA (March 14-15, 2026).
HSBC SVNS World Championship: Hong Kong (April 17-19, 2026), Valladolid (May 29-31, 2026), Bordeaux (June 5-7, 2026).
HSBC SVNS 2: February-March 2026
HSBC SVNS 3: January 2026
Participating Teams (Top Level):
Women: Australia,Canada,Fiji,France,Great Britain,Japan,New Zealand,USA
men: Argentina,Australia,Fiji,France,Great Britain,New Zealand,South Africa,Spain
Tickets for the Dubai and Cape Town events are now on sale. Fans can watch HSBC SVNS action live on www.rugbypass.tv or through domestic broadcasters.
World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin stated: “following a competitive process, we are delighted to confirm the locations and dates for the new-look HSBC SVNS 2026 Series, which features a three-location World Championship, adding to the excitement for fans. Moving to a two-day format has proven a hit with destinations and we are delighted with the level of engagement and enthusiasm from cities and national unions, who share our vision of advancing sevens on the world stage ahead of the LA 2028 Olympic Games.”
