SEA 7s Comes Home: Kallang Reclaims Its Place at the Heart of Southeast Asian Rugby as Regional Pride Meets World's Best
- John Yeong
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
SEA 7s Returns to the National Stadium Alongside HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026
SINGAPORE, 15 January 2026 - Rugby’s biggest weekend in Singapore is set to deliver both meaning and momentum when the Southeast Asian 7s (SEA 7s) Finals return to the National Stadium at The Kallang on 31 January 2026, staged alongside the global showpiece of HSBC SVNS Singapore.
More than just a curtain-raiser, the SEA 7s’ return to Singapore’s premier sporting venue represents a homecoming for Southeast Asian rugby — placing regional ambition on the same world-class stage as the sport’s elite.
One Weekend, One Pitch, Two Powerful Narratives
Long known as the most family-friendly stop on the world sevens circuit, HSBC SVNS Singapore blends elite competition with festival atmosphere. In 2026, that experience is elevated further with the SEA 7s Finals being played on the same iconic turf.
Organised by the Singapore Rugby Union, the SEA 7s brings together eight nations from across Southeast Asia, offering emerging teams the rare opportunity to compete in a high-performance environment alongside global stars.
For players and fans alike, Kallang becomes a shared stage — where regional dreams and international excellence coexist.
Home Advantage and History on the Line
Singapore’s women’s team returns as defending SEA 7s champions after claiming their first-ever title last year, a breakthrough moment that helped drive interest in the women’s game at grassroots level.
Captain Victoria Chew has highlighted the emotional weight of playing a SEA 7s final at the National Stadium, with friends and family in the stands. For Singapore’s squads, this is more than competition — it is a chance to represent the nation on its grandest rugby stage.
Regional Rivals Bring Championship Momentum
The SEA 7s Finals will be fiercely contested. Thailand’s men arrive as reigning champions and Southeast Asian Games gold medallists, while Malaysia’s men’s and women’s teams return eager to turn previous runners-up finishes into titles.
Their presence underscores the SEA 7s’ growing importance as a proving ground for Southeast Asian rugby, made even more significant by its return to Kallang.
Global Icons and a Festival Feel
Adding to the spectacle, rugby legends Jerry Tuwai, Ruby Tui and Nathan Hirayama will serve as official ambassadors, engaging fans through meet-and-greets, youth activities and community programmes.
Their involvement reinforces the event’s mission: making rugby accessible, inclusive and inspiring for families and fans across the region.
Key Fixtures to Watch at HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026
The organisers have unveiled a compelling opening-day schedule for HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026, setting the tone for an action-packed weekend at Kallang.
Women’s Opening Match: France vs Canada (31 January)
Men’s Opening Match: France vs New Zealand (31 January)
Women’s Pools
Pool A: Australia, USA, Japan, Fiji
Pool B: New Zealand, France, Canada, Great Britain
Men’s Pools
Pool A: South Africa, Fiji, Great Britain, Spain
Pool B: Argentina, France, New Zealand, Australia
As the first SVNS event of 2026, Singapore will launch the global season in front of packed stands, electric night sessions and a festival atmosphere unique to Kallang.
Why the Return to Kallang Matters
Hosting both the SEA 7s Finals and HSBC SVNS Singapore at the National Stadium sends a powerful message. It tells young players that Southeast Asian rugby belongs on the biggest stages. It tells fans that regional teams deserve the same spotlight as the world’s best. And it reaffirms Singapore’s position as the regional hub for rugby sevens.