Nyayo Stadium to Host Record Crowds as HSBC SVNS 2 Begins

Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi will welcome a record crowd this weekend for the HSBC SVNS 2 rugby tournament, which has sold out for the first time in its history. 

The two-day event, set for 14 and 15 February, will see Kenya become one of only two African nations to host a Division 2 leg of the global World Rugby Sevens circuit. Organisers have introduced strict measures to manage the large attendance. 

No tickets will be available at the gate, and fans are encouraged to arrive early to avoid congestion. Increased security will be in place to prevent ticket fraud and enforce bans on prohibited items such as food and drink, drones, pets, weapons, and illicit substances. Those found with counterfeit tickets will face denial of entry.

Access to the stadium will be managed through designated gates. VIP and VVIP ticket holders will enter via Aerodrome Road, while general admission attendees will use gates on Lang'ata Road and Uhuru Highway. With no on-site parking, spectators are advised to use ride-hailing services, public transport, or shared drop-offs. 

Fans should also keep digital tickets ready for scanning to avoid delays.

The tournament kicks off at 9:00 AM on Saturday, with 18 matches scheduled between men’s and women’s teams. Kenya’s Shujaa and Lionesses will compete against teams from Canada, Belgium, South Africa, Argentina, and others. The semifinals and finals on Sunday evening are expected to draw the highest attendance.

With hot weather anticipated, organisers have advised fans to prepare for the conditions by bringing sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and wearing comfortable clothing. Hydration will be important throughout the day, particularly given the length of play and the event’s energetic atmosphere.