Kenyan rugby has received a significant shot in the arm after SportPesa unveiled a Ksh. 34.14 million sponsorship package for the 2026 National Sevens Circuit, more than doubling last season’s Ksh. 15 million investment.

The enhanced sponsorship underscores the betting firm’s continued commitment to the growth and development of rugby in Kenya as the circuit celebrates its 25th edition this year. The expanded funding will support host clubs, the Kenya Rugby Union media coverage, fan engagement activities, and increased prize money across the competition.

The six-leg circuit will kick off with the Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru on July 25-26 before heading to Kisumu for the Dala 7s, Nairobi for the Kabeberi 7s, Mombasa for the Driftwood 7s, Embu for the Embu 7s, and finally conclude with the Christie Sevens in Nairobi on September 12-13.

Of the total sponsorship package, Ksh. 6 million has been allocated to support host clubs, while another Ksh. 6 million will go directly to the Kenya Rugby Union. A further Ksh. 9 million has been earmarked for media coverage and live streaming to ensure wider visibility for the competition. Prize money will account for Ksh 4.14 million, with additional funds supporting fan experiences and operational needs.

Speaking during the sponsorship launch, SportPesa Head of Marketing Willis Ojwang described the partnership as a long-term commitment aimed at elevating the sport.

“This is not just about sponsorships; it is about partnerships and growing the sport together,” said Ojwang.

The increased prize pool is expected to intensify competition among participating teams. Winners of each men’s circuit leg will receive Ksh. 150,000, while runners-up will pocket Ksh. 75,000 and third-placed teams Ksh. 40,000. In the women’s category, winners will earn Ksh. 100,000, with second and third place receiving Ksh. 50,000 and Ksh 25,000 respectively.

Division Two champions will take home Ksh. 70,000, while runners-up will receive Ksh. 30,000.

Overall circuit champions in the men’s competition will be rewarded with Ksh 300,000, with second and third place earning Ksh. 150,000 and Ksh. 100,000 respectively. Women’s overall champions will receive Ksh. 200,000, while runners-up and third-placed teams will collect Ksh. 100,000 and Ksh. 50,000.

In a historic development for the competition, five of the six circuit legs will feature a women’s category for the first time. The women’s competition will be played at the Prinsloo 7s, Dala 7s, Kabeberi 7s, Embu 7s and Christie 7s, with Driftwood 7s remaining the only stop without a women’s tournament.

The expanded sponsorship and enhanced inclusivity signal a new chapter for the National Sevens Circuit as Kenyan rugby continues its push for greater growth, visibility and competitiveness.