World Rugby Unveils New Three-Tier HSBC SVNS Tournament Model

The revamped structure aims to boost financial stability and expand the reach of rugby sevens ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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World Rugby is implementing a significant overhaul of its HSBC SVNS competition, introducing a new three-tier system designed to create a more dynamic and accessible pathway for teams and fans. The changes include the introduction of HSBC SVNS 3, HSBC SVNS 2, and the HSBC SVNS Series, all leading up to the HSBC SVNS World Championship.

Why it matters

The restructuring is strategically timed to build momentum leading up to the LA 2028 Olympics, with the World Championship and Olympic rugby sevens competition both set to take place at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The integrated tournaments will also feature equal participation fees and representation for men's and women's teams, promoting gender equality in the sport.

The details

The new three-tier system allows teams to progress from regional competition to the top level within a single year. The inaugural HSBC SVNS 3 Series took place in Dubai in January 2026, with South Africa's women and Canada's men emerging as champions and securing promotion to HSBC SVNS 2. HSBC SVNS 2 will be hosted in Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo, with the top four men's and women's teams earning promotion to the HSBC SVNS World Championship Series. The HSBC SVNS Series will feature six iconic global destinations, showcasing the world's best sevens teams.

  • The inaugural HSBC SVNS 3 Series took place in Dubai in January 2026.
  • HSBC SVNS 2 will be hosted in Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo in February and March 2026.
  • The 2026 HSBC SVNS Series will feature tournaments in Dubai, Cape Town, Singapore, Perth, Vancouver, and New York.

The players

World Rugby

The international governing body for the sport of rugby union.

Dignity Health Sports Park

The venue in Carson, California that will host the HSBC SVNS World Championship and the Olympic rugby sevens competition.

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What’s next

The HSBC SVNS World Championship will be a three-destination event, featuring the top 24 teams (12 men's and 12 women's) competing for the title. The journey begins in Hong Kong, followed by new additions to the calendar: Valladolid and Bordeaux in Europe.

The takeaway

The revamped HSBC SVNS model addresses shifting media and sports trends, aiming to enhance appeal for both fans and potential hosts. The integrated tournaments will feature equal participation fees and representation for men's and women's teams, promoting gender equality within the sport as it builds momentum towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.