The wait is almost over as 12 men’s teams and eight women’s sides prepare to begin the 2026 National Rugby 7s Series, the first edition to be played under an expanded format aimed at making the competition more competitive and inclusive.
The series gets underway in July and will run across six rounds. The opening five tournaments will be held at fixed venues before the season concludes with the Grand Finale at Muteesa II Royal Stadium, Wankulukuku, on September 9 and 10.
The opening stop, the Stone City 7s in Jinja, also makes a welcome return after disappearing from the rugby calendar since 2023. The circuit will then head to Kings Park Arena in Wakiso, Kyadondo Rugby Grounds in Kampala, Gulu University Grounds and Kyabazinga Stadium in Jinja.
The men’s competition has two new faces after Gulu City Falcons and Elgon Wolves were relegated at the end of last season. Victoria Sharks and Mbale Elephants have earned promotion and will make their debut as core teams.
In the women’s category, the expansion to eight core teams allowed She Wolves to retain their place. Mbale Eagles and Kitgum Queens are now in line for automatic promotion after favourites Ewes were docked points during the qualification campaign for allegedly fielding ineligible players.
Beyond the core competition, the new format also opens more opportunities for emerging clubs. Non-core teams will compete in four regional tournaments, with the best sides advancing to two National Promotional Playoffs to fight for places in the top tier.
The changes, first announced in February, signal a new direction for Uganda’s Rugby 7s. With more teams, a clearer promotion pathway and six weekends of action across the country, the stage is set for another thrilling season of fast paced rugby.
