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Bordeaux, France – 6 June 2026
Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, began its HSBC SVNS World Championship Finals campaign in Bordeaux on Friday by taking on two of the strongest rugby sevens nations in the world: Fiji and South Africa.
Despite suffering defeats in both encounters, the Kenyan side once again demonstrated the resilience and determination that have made Shujaa one of Africa’s most respected rugby teams.
In their opening match, Kenya faced Fiji, one of the most successful rugby sevens nations in history. Shujaa battled bravely but eventually fell 31-12 against the Pacific Islanders.
Later in the evening, Kenya returned to the pitch to face continental rivals South Africa. The Blitzboks proved too strong on the day, securing a 26-5 victory.
Friday Results
🇫🇯 Fiji 31 – 12 Kenya 🇰🇪
🇿🇦 South Africa 26 – 5 Kenya 🇰🇪
More Than Just Results
While the scoreboard may not have favoured Kenya, participation in the HSBC SVNS World Championship Finals is itself a testament to the country’s continued presence among rugby sevens’ elite nations.
The Bordeaux tournament features the world’s best teams, including Olympic medallists, former world champions and long-established rugby powers.
For Shujaa, every match provides an opportunity to measure themselves against the very best and continue building towards future international success.
Kenyan Diaspora Shows Its Support
The Kenyan community in France was well represented throughout the opening day, with supporters travelling from Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Lille and other cities to cheer on the national team.
Kenyan flags and chants could be seen and heard around Stade de Bordeaux as supporters rallied behind Shujaa in a show of national pride.
For many members of the diaspora, seeing Kenya compete on French soil was a moment of celebration regardless of the results.
One More Battle Awaits
Kenya now turns its attention to Saturday’s final pool match against Great Britain.
Upcoming Match
🇰🇪 Kenya vs Great Britain 🇬🇧
🕒 Saturday 6 June 2026 – 10:44 (France Time)
The match offers Shujaa an opportunity to finish the group stage on a positive note and demonstrate once again the fighting spirit that has become synonymous with Kenyan rugby.
Kenya’s Rugby Story Continues
Over the years, Shujaa has delivered memorable moments on the international stage, inspiring young players across Kenya and showcasing the country’s sporting talent to the world.
Bordeaux 2026 is another chapter in that story.
While victories are always the objective, the determination, pride and commitment displayed by the players continue to inspire supporters both in Kenya and across the diaspora.
As the tournament progresses, one message remains clear:
Shujaa never stop fighting.
Go Shujaa! Go Kenya! 🇰🇪
