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Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Tournament in Mauritius to be Postponed in Line with Public Health Guidance on Hosting International Events
Among growing considerations regarding the hosting of international events, Rugby Africa and Mauritius Rugby Union have taken the decision to reschedule the tournament following guidance from Mauritian health authorities.
PORT LOUIS, Mauritius – Rugby Africa, the continental governing body of rugby across Africa, and the Mauritius Rugby Union, the governing body of rugby in Mauritius, announce the postponement of the Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Tournament following a review of the current public health environment and related national guidance on the hosting of international events.
The Africa Men’s Sevens tournament was originally scheduled to take place at the Sport Complex (SPARC), Cascavelle, Mauritius, on 20–21 June 2026, with the participation of 12 countries across Africa.
The decision follows a Cabinet-level review on 5 June 2026 and subsequent guidance from the Mauritian authorities, as precautionary public health measures were implemented in response to the evolving Ebola outbreak situation in parts of Africa. As part of its risk management process, the Federation reviewed the updated recommendations and strengthened mitigation measures, including adjustments to the tournament participation list.
During this period, the Tournament Medical Team also engaged with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to ensure full alignment with applicable health protocols. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the region as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Following inter-ministerial consultations between the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the authorities advised that, given the current public health context and potential risks associated with international travel and gatherings, the tournament should not proceed as scheduled. The postponement has therefore been implemented as a precautionary measure.
It is important to note that no Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases have been reported among participating teams, officials, tournament staff, or within Mauritius. The decision has been taken purely as a precautionary measure, in line with public health guidance from the relevant Mauritian authorities and reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding all participants and stakeholders.
Rugby Africa had completed extensive preparations for the tournament, including a comprehensive health surveillance and risk management plan designed to ensure the safe delivery of the competition. However, considering the updated guidance, postponement has been deemed the most responsible course of action at this time. The health, safety and well-being of players, team management, match officials, volunteers, staff and fans remain the organisation’s highest priority.
“The Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Tournament is a key event on our calendar, and we fully understand the disappointment this decision will cause for our players, teams, officials, partners and supporters,” said Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa and Executive Board Member of World Rugby.
“However, this decision has been taken following formal guidance from the Mauritian authorities regarding the hosting of international events under the current public health context. Rugby Africa and host’s Mauritius Rugby Union have acted responsibly and in full alignment with these recommendations, with the health, safety and welfare of our rugby community as our absolute priority. This is a postponement, not a cancellation. Continuity is assured. We remain fully committed to delivering this tournament under the right conditions, and we will work closely with our partners to confirm new dates at the earliest opportunity.”
Rugby Africa and Mauritius Rugby Union are working closely with the Government of Mauritius, World Rugby, and the relevant authorities to identify suitable alternative dates. Further updates will be communicated once arrangements are confirmed.
Both organisations extend their sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, sponsors, stakeholders, volunteers, supporters, and all participating unions, athletes, officials, and partners for their cooperation, understanding, and continued support during this period.
Rugby Africa remains dedicated to delivering world-class competitions while upholding the highest standards of player welfare, health, and safety across the continent.
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Media Contact: Pravin Roodur
Manager of Mauritius Rugby Federation
T. +230 5257 6909
Media Contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Manager
nicole.vervelde@rugbyafrique.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women’s rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 40 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
