In a few days, elite rugby sevens squads from 14 countries will arrive at Coetzenburg in Stellenbosch for the 2026 FISU World University Championship Rugby Sevens, which takes place from September 4 to 6, from 9am till 5pm daily.
This global festival of fast-paced sevens rugby is being hosted by Maties Sport at Stellenbosch University on behalf of University Sport South Africa (USSA) for the International University Sports Federation (FISU).
Close on 200 young men and women, making up 17 teams, will battle it out over three days in the Danie Craven Stadium: Women – South Africa, Japan, Canada, France, Australia, United States of America and Ireland; Men – South Africa, Chile, Mexico, Australia, Zimbabwe, Argentina, Uganda, Norway and Japan.
These are the players to watch now because many will go on to become global rugby sevens legends in their countries.
Fine-tuning for the big event
Says the Event General Manager, Drikus Hancke: “We are now fine-tuning plans that will celebrate rugby excellence, showcase cultural diversity, and create lasting memories.
“We promise a world-class competition in a sporting festival atmosphere that is sure to build camaraderie and connections between players, officials and guests that will thrive long after the final whistle.”
From rival to lasting friendships
Competing at the World University Championships is a career highlight for many. For others, it is a step up to the next level of performance.
“What you all have in common is your love of sport, your commitment, your fair play and your respect,” says FISU President Leonz Eder, addressing the student-athletes: “Players come together as rivals, from different places and different backgrounds, but will almost certainly leave as friends.
“Despite the challenging times we are all facing, you remind us of the special power of young people to reassure us that a better world is possible. You remind us of the need to prioritise sport, sustainability, inclusivity and healthy social exchange. FISU firmly believes that university athletes are the role models and future leaders the world needs.
“Over the following 3 days, you will compete alongside some of the best student-athletes on the planet. The FISU World University Championships demand skill, athleticism, and single-minded determination to do your best. But beyond the competition, please remember to have fun.
“None of FISU’s events would be possible without the generosity of our hosts. I want to extend our sincere gratitude to USSA and Maties Sport for their dedication and to the volunteers for their passion.”
A Festival for Fans – and big screen Springboks vs All Blacks
In addition to the rugby showcase of future global rugby stars, a Fan Zone will cater for all spectator needs with a chill area, beer tent, music, food stalls – and a big screen where ticket holders are invited to watch the Springbok/All Blacks clash on Saturday, September 5 at 5pm!
Get your tickets
Tickets are on sale now through Webtickets (see QR code or click https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1600246743 ) and are available in package options:
Thursday September 3: Free ticket
Enjoy the Fan Zone offerings, meet our visitors, watch them train and stay for the opening ceremony in the Danie Craven Stadium at 6pm.
Friday, September 4: Day ticket – R80 (all day from 9am)
Game day action and Fan Zone festivities.
Saturday, September 5: Day ticket – R120 (all day from 9amGame day action. Fan Zone activities including Springbok/All Blacks game on the Big Screen at 5pm.
Sunday, September 6: Day ticket – R120 (from 9am)
Finals, Medal Ceremony and Closing Ceremony.
3-Day Tournament Pass – R250
3-Day Student Tournament Pass – R150 (limited to 1 000)
School Tournament Pass – R100 (limited to 750)
Seating is in the grandstand, and tickets give you access to the fan zone.
Streaming and updates
The games will be streamed through FISU’s online platform (but nothing beats being a part of the live action – so get your tickets).
Click here to watch the livestream
Click here to access photos and highlights.
Click here to get all the results.
For all information and further updates, follow the event on Facebook and Instagram @ FISURugby7s, visit the event’s website or follow’s FISU’s social outlets @FISUOr, follow us on Maties Sport and Maties Rugby social media platforms for fixtures and the full programme.
FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA ONLY:
Access for media to the competition grounds at Coetzenburg, Stellenbosch, is through accreditation only. To attend the week-long event, please complete the registration form at: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Azv6pjwKWEKEM6Eg3_zTSGaJd9igY-dIthrl9lPi6l5UM0VEQjVUUFNYUkcyNUdJTTRPTVFOVjlVUC4u
Once registered, you will be given Padlet access for live updates.
For further enquiries and to arrange an interview, please contact:
Skhu Nkomphela, USSA Media Officer: Media@ussa.org.za Cell: +27 69 884 5957