SportPesa boosts Shujaa ahead of World Rugby Sevens Series return

Sportpesa CEO Ronald Karauri (left) with Kenya Rugby Union CEO Thomas Odundo and the federation chairman Sasha Mutai when the betting company announced sponsorship for Shujaa. [Courtesy]

Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, has received a significant boost from SportPesa as they prepare for their much-anticipated return to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series next month.

SportPesa has restructured its sponsorship agreement with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), committing Sh84.15 million to support Shujaa’s campaign.

The sponsorship will cover the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons, with Sh33 million allocated for the upcoming season and Sh49 million for the following year.

An additional Sh1.65 million is set aside as prize money for the SportPesa National Sevens Circuit in 2025.

Speaking during the announcement, SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri reaffirmed the company’s dedication to fostering sports excellence in Kenya.

"We believe in Shujaa’s potential and are confident that this support will inspire the team to achieve greatness. Our partnership aims to empower athletes while motivating future generations of sports stars," he said.

Shujaa, who recently triumphed at the Safari Sevens with a 12-0 win over Shogun Rugby, have shown impressive form this year. After being relegated in 2023, they roared back to win the Dubai Challenger Series and secured a slot at the Paris Olympics.

KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai expressed gratitude for SportPesa’s commitment, emphasizing its pivotal role in supporting the team’s success.

Assistant coach Louis Kisia echoed the sentiment, saying the backing has strengthened Shujaa’s resolve to excel. "We are determined to showcase our resilience and make Kenya proud," Kisia remarked.

Shujaa, placed in Group A alongside France, Australia, and South Africa, will announce their final squad on November 22 ahead of the Dubai Sevens on November 30.