The 2026 Rugby Africa Men’s 7s Tournament, which was scheduled to take place in Mauritius later this month, has been postponed following guidance from Mauritian authorities amid the evolving Ebola outbreak situation in parts of Africa.
In a joint statement, Rugby Africa and the Mauritius Rugby Union confirmed that the tournament, originally set for 20–21 June 2026 at the Sport Complex (SPARC) in Cascavelle, Mauritius, will no longer proceed as planned.
The competition was expected to bring together 12 nations from across the continent in one of Africa’s premier sevens rugby events.
According to Rugby Africa, the decision followed a Cabinet-level review conducted on 5 June 2026 and subsequent recommendations issued by Mauritian authorities regarding the hosting of international events.
The move comes as precautionary public health measures continue to be implemented in response to the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the African region.
As part of its risk management process, Rugby Africa reviewed updated recommendations and strengthened mitigation measures, including adjustments to the tournament participation list. The tournament’s Medical Team also engaged with Mauritius’ Ministry of Health and Wellness to ensure full compliance with applicable health protocols.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the Ebola outbreak impacting parts of the region as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Following consultations involving the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mauritian authorities advised that the tournament should not proceed under the current public health circumstances due to potential risks associated with international travel and large gatherings.
Rugby Africa emphasized that the postponement is strictly precautionary.
“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 statement read.
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“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.”
The continental governing body revealed that extensive preparations had already been completed for the tournament, including the implementation of a comprehensive health surveillance and risk management plan aimed at ensuring the safe delivery of the event.
However, Rugby Africa stated that postponement was the most responsible course of action given the latest guidance from health authorities.
“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 Rugby Africa President and World Rugby Executive Board Member Herbert Mensah.
“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 hosts 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.”
Mensah stressed that the tournament has not been cancelled.
“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,” he added.
Rugby Africa and the Mauritius Rugby Union are now working closely with the Government of Mauritius, World Rugby and relevant authorities to identify suitable alternative dates for the competition. Further details regarding the rescheduled event are expected to be communicated once arrangements have been finalised.
The two organisations also expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, sponsors, volunteers, participating unions, athletes, officials and supporters for their understanding and continued cooperation during this period.
Rugby Africa reiterated its commitment to delivering world-class competitions while maintaining the highest standards of player welfare, health and safety across the continent.
