If atmosphere counted for trophies, Nairobi would have lifted one of its own.
The 2026 HSBC SVNS 2 will be remembered as one of the most vibrant and best-attended rugby tournaments not just in Kenya, but across Africa. From packed terraces to rolling Mexican waves, from halftime performances to fans staying long after matches ended, Nyayo became a celebration of sport.
Supporters did not only rally behind Kenya ,they applauded excellence. Teams that executed well were cheered. Players acknowledged the stands with laps of honour. The energy rarely dipped.
On the field, Germany emerged as men’s champions after a composed and efficient campaign. Their pivotal victory over the USA on Sunday reshaped the standings and ultimately secured them top spot with 13 points. Clinical in tight moments, disciplined in defence, and efficient in attack, they proved the most consistent side across the two days.
Argentina were crowned women’s champions despite a dramatic 17–12 golden-time defeat to South Africa in their final outing. Having entered that clash unbeaten, the Argentines had already done enough to finish top of the standings. South Africa’s extra-time winner sealed second place, while Spain and China impressed with strong closing performances.
Beyond the results, Nairobi sent a message. The organization, the turnout and the atmosphere reinforced Kenya’s growing reputation as a capable and passionate host of international rugby. World Rugby officials watching on could not have missed the statement made.
For two days, the global second-tier circuit felt anything but secondary. Nairobi delivered a world-class stage.
Full Tournament Results – SVNS 2 Nairobi
Men
Saturday 14 February 2026
USA 40–0 Belgium
Uruguay 14–19 Germany
Kenya 29–12 Canada
Uruguay 14–17 USA
Germany 26–17 Canada
Kenya 33–0 Belgium
USA 41–7 Canada
Uruguay 38–14 Belgium
Kenya 15–10 Germany
Sunday 15 February 2026
Canada 7–10 Belgium
USA 7–28 Germany
Kenya 17–7 Uruguay
Germany 12–7 Belgium
Uruguay 43–12 Canada
Kenya 5–21 USA
Women
Saturday 14 February 2026
China 10–20 Argentina
Spain 12–14 South Africa
Brazil 12–14 Kenya
Spain 17–19 Argentina
Brazil 12–0 South Africa
China 15–12 Kenya
Brazil 17–28 Argentina
China 0–21 Spain
Kenya 10–12 South Africa
Sunday 15 February 2026
China 5–33 South Africa
Brazil 21–29 Spain
Kenya 0–5 Argentina
South Africa 17–12 Argentina
Brazil 5–24 China
Spain 14–5 Kenya
