Fixtures & Results

The Rugby Africa Cup is Rugby Africa's premier men's fifteen-a-side international competition, bringing together the continent's leading national teams to compete for continental honours and a pathway to the Men's Rugby World Cup.

The 2025 edition took place in Kampala, Uganda, from 8 to 19 July, with eight nations competing at Mandela National Stadium for Africa's direct qualification place at the Men's Rugby World Cup Australia 2027.

Zimbabwe Crowned Champions and Qualify for Rugby World Cup 2027

Zimbabwe's Sables made history by winning the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, defeating Namibia 30–28 in a thrilling final on 19 July 2025. The victory secured Zimbabwe's return to the Men's Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991, ending a 34-year absence from the global stage.

The tournament also marked a significant milestone for African rugby, showcasing the depth of talent and growing competitiveness across the continent. Namibia finished as runners-up and progressed to the subsequent international qualification pathway, while Algeria claimed third place after defeating Kenya.

The competition was hosted at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, with Uganda welcoming eight national teams for two weeks of high-stakes international rugby.

Participating Nations

The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup featured eight national teams: Zimbabwe, Namibia, Algeria, Kenya, Senegal, Morocco, Uganda and Côte d'Ivoire.

2025 Final Rankings

• Zimbabwe — Champions
• Namibia — Runners-up
• Algeria
• Kenya
• Senegal
• Morocco
• Uganda
• Côte d'Ivoire (Relegated)

The Road to Rugby World Cup 2027

The Rugby Africa Cup plays a vital role in developing elite rugby across the continent and providing African nations with opportunities to compete on the world stage. Through the tournament, national teams gain valuable international experience while competing for continental honours and Rugby World Cup qualification.

Zimbabwe's triumph secured Africa's direct qualification place for the Men's Rugby World Cup Australia 2027, where the Sables will represent the continent alongside reigning world champions South Africa, who qualified automatically as defending champions.

The Rugby Africa Cup remains central to Rugby Africa's commitment to strengthening the game, raising competitive standards and creating more opportunities for African nations to excel internationally.

For more information about the Men's Rugby World Cup 2027, visit the official qualifying page.