SportPesa boosts Shujaa ahead of World Rugby Sevens Series return

Rugby
By Washington Onyango | Nov 17, 2024
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.

Share this story
Kasarani and Thailand rule Nairobi event
Kasarani Youth and Thailand landed more boxers in the finals on the penultimate day of Nairobi County Novices Championships at Umoja Boxing and Arts Club.
Is KVF embroiled in a serious leadership crisis?
Under the leadership of the late Kenya Volleyball Federation president Waithaka Kioni, disputes were unheard of, and the sport thrived to the delight of sportsmen and women.
Will Kenya become the first African country to host World Championships?
Kenya will know in September this year whether it will host the 2029 or 2031 World Athletics Championships, the most prestigious international track and field event.
Defending champion Korir faces world champ Simbu in Boston
Organisers have confirmed that eight of the top 10 finishers from the 2025 Boston Marathon will return to the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on April 20.
Ebenyo among stars to battle for glory in Mumias
World Cross Country Championships bronze medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo is among more than 500 athletes set to compete during the penultimate leg of the second season of Betika BingwaFest.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS