Rugby fans across the continent are gearing up for one of the year’s biggest showdowns. The African Rugby Cup is back this July, and with a World Cup spot on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether you’re a die-hard follower or just dipping in for the drama, this year’s tournament is set to deliver serious action.
Tournament Details
The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup runs from 8 to 19 July in Kampala, Uganda, hosted at the newly revamped Mandela National Stadium. The stakes aren’t just for the African crown—the winner goes straight to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, while the runner-up gets one last shot via a cross-regional play-off.
Format & Stakes
The tournament brings together eight of Africa’s top teams: Zimbabwe, Algeria, Namibia, Kenya, Uganda, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and the 2024 repechage winner (likely Morocco). It’s a straight knockout format—quarter‑finals, semis, then finals—all happening in the same stadium over 11 intense days.
Who’s Coming In Strong?
- Zimbabwe come in as top seeds, having beaten Algeria to win the 2024 title.
- Namibia, a regular at World Cups since 1999, bring experience and depth.
- Kenya are chasing a long-overdue breakthrough, buoyed by strong prep tours in Southern Africa.
- Uganda, hosting again, will lean on home support and improved facilities.
- Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire are the wildcards—Algeria knocked out Kenya last year, while Côte d’Ivoire just avoided the drop.
What Makes It Special?
The Cup isn’t just about football‑style dominance—it promises unpredictable drama. New teams like Senegal and Morocco (if they qualify via repechage) bring fresh tactics and youthful flair. It’s about survival and national pride: lose here, and your World Cup dream dies; win, and you’re headed to Australia in 2027.
For players, coaches, and fans alike, this isn’t just another tournament. It’s an important moment in African rugby’s growth and a chance to make an impact on the global stage.
How to Watch
The best platform to watch, no matter where you are in the world, will be on RugbyPass TV—and the best part is, it’s completely free. Matches will also stream live on platforms like Rugby Africa’s Facebook, and Uganda’s NBS Sport.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 African Rugby Cup promises grit, flair, and high‑stakes clashes. Kampala will roar, underdogs will bite, and squads will fight for far more than a trophy—it’s a leap toward the Rugby World Cup.
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