Rugby Africa has unveiled the fixtures for the 2026 U20 Barthés Trophy, with the continental tournament set to take place in Kampala, Uganda, from August 7 to 15.
The championship will be hosted at the Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, where teams will compete under a revamped format that introduces a First Division and a Performance Division.
U20 Barthés Trophy New competition format
The 2026 tournament marks the introduction of Rugby Africa’s revamped U20 Barthés Trophy structure.
The First Division features Uganda, Zambia and Madagascar, while the Performance Division comprises Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tunisia.
The new format ushers in a new chapter for the continental age-grade competition as teams begin the race for the 2026 U20 Barthés Trophy.
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Kenya to face Zimbabwe in U20 Barthés Trophy opener
Kenya will kick off its Performance Division campaign against Zimbabwe on August 7 at 1:00 p.m. (EAT).
The opening day will begin with Namibia taking on Tunisia before hosts Uganda face Zambia in the First Division fixture.
On August 11, the Performance Division continues with the losers of the opening matches facing off before the winners meet later in the day to determine the division champion.
The First Division resumes the same day with Zambia taking on Madagascar before the hosts conclude their campaign against Madagascar on August 15.
2026 U20 Barthés Trophy fixtures
Performance Division
Friday, August 7
Namibia vs Tunisia – 10:00 a.m.
Kenya vs Zimbabwe – 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 11
Loser: Namibia/Tunisia vs Loser: Kenya/Zimbabwe – 12:00 p.m.
Winner: Namibia/Tunisia vs Winner: Kenya/Zimbabwe – 3:00 p.m.
First Division
Friday, August 7
Uganda vs Zambia – 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 11
Zambia vs Madagascar – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 15
Uganda vs Madagascar – 4:00 p.m.
