HSBC SVNS: New Global Rugby Sevens Model & 2026 Schedule Revealed

World Rugby has unveiled a revamped HSBC SVNS competition model, designed to bolster the financial stability and global reach of rugby sevens as it builds momentum toward the LA 2028 Olympics. The new three-tier structure promises increased competition, opportunities for emerging nations, and a more compelling experience for fans worldwide.

A New Era for Sevens Rugby

The evolution of the HSBC SVNS series isn’t merely a cosmetic change; it’s a strategic overhaul aimed at addressing shifting media landscapes and evolving sports consumption habits. The core principle is to create a clearer pathway for teams to rise through the ranks, with the potential to progress from regional competition to the top-tier HSBC SVNS Series within a single season. This dynamic system is underpinned by an expanded 13-tournament calendar starting in 2026.

Crucially, the revamped series maintains full gender parity, with integrated tournaments offering equal participation fees and representation for both men’s and women’s teams. This commitment to equality underscores World Rugby’s dedication to fostering inclusivity within the sport.

The Three Tiers of Competition

The HSBC SVNS structure is divided into three distinct tiers: HSBC SVNS 3, HSBC SVNS 2, and the HSBC SVNS Series, culminating in the HSBC SVNS World Championship.

HSBC SVNS 3: The Launchpad

The inaugural HSBC SVNS 3 Series took place in Dubai January 17-18, 2026, serving as the entry point for emerging nations. The competition featured eight women’s teams – Argentina, Colombia, Czechia, Mexico, Poland, Samoa, South Africa, and Thailand – and eight men’s teams – Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Hong Kong China, Italy, Madagascar, Samoa, and Tonga.

The weekend culminated in championship victories for South Africa’s women and Canada’s men, both earning promotion to the HSBC SVNS 2 series. Argentina (women) and Belgium (men) secured their places as runners-up.

HSBC SVNS 2: The Challenger Series

HSBC SVNS 2 is scheduled for February and March 2026, with events hosted in Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo. This tier represents a crucial stepping stone, where the top four men’s and women’s teams will earn promotion to the elite HSBC SVNS World Championship Series. The participating teams include Argentina, Brazil, China, Kenya, South Africa, and Spain in the women’s competition, and Belgium, Canada, Germany, Kenya, USA, and Uruguay in the men’s.

HSBC SVNS Series: The Elite Stage

The HSBC SVNS Series showcases the world’s best sevens teams across six iconic global destinations: Dubai, Cape Town, Singapore, Perth, Vancouver, and New York. The women’s competition will feature Australia, Canada, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, and the USA. The men’s competition will see competition from Argentina, Australia, Fiji, France, Great Britain, New Zealand, South Africa, and Spain. These high-intensity, two-day tournaments promise fast-paced action and fierce competition.

HSBC SVNS World Championship: The Pinnacle

The HSBC SVNS World Championship represents the culmination of the season, bringing together the top 24 teams – 12 men’s and 12 women’s – to compete for the title of HSBC SVNS World Champions 2026. The championship will begin in Hong Kong at the renowned Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, before moving to Europe for a dramatic finale in Valladolid (Spain) and Bordeaux (France). These cities will host back-to-back events, marking their debut on the SVNS calendar.

The structure of the HSBC SVNS series is a clear indication of World Rugby’s commitment to growing the sport and providing a platform for both established and emerging nations. With the LA 2028 Olympics on the horizon, the revamped series aims to elevate the profile of rugby sevens and attract a wider audience. The expanded calendar, coupled with the promotion and relegation system, will undoubtedly create a more competitive and engaging spectacle for fans around the globe. A complete fixture list can be found here.