The Ultimate Sevens draft is underway, and it's shaping up to be a thrilling competition with a star-studded lineup. With 17 nations and 131 players, the inaugural season promises to be a showcase of talent and a celebration of the sport's global reach. Here's a breakdown of some of the marquee players and teams that are set to make waves in this new tournament.
Pacific Current: A Pacific Powerhouse
This team is a force to be reckoned with, boasting a strong Pacific influence. The women's squad features the formidable Maddison Levi and Reapi Ulunisau, both of whom are sure to dominate the field with their skill and experience. On the men's side, Henry Hutchison and Terio Veilawa bring a dynamic edge to the team, showcasing their prowess in the sport.
Sol Feroz: Spanish and Argentine Talent
Sol Feroz is a team that embodies the spirit of international collaboration. The men's side is led by the Spanish star Manu Monero and the Argentine Luciano González, a powerful combination that will undoubtedly create exciting gameplay. The women's team is equally impressive, with Thalia Costa, a two-time Olympian, and the young Spanish playmaker Jimena Blanco-Hortiguena, who recently earned a promotion to the SVNS Series, adding a spark of brilliance to the squad.
Atlantic Novas: North American Excellence
This team showcases the talent emerging from North America. The women's side features the Olympic duo Lucas Lacamp and Stephen Tomasin, both of whom have proven their mettle on the international stage. Joining them is the Canadian and 2024 Olympic silver medalist Krissy Scurfield, a force to be reckoned with. The men's team is equally impressive, with the addition of Faith Nathan, the 2026 SVNS Champion, further solidifying their position as a top contender.
Albion Athletic: A British and Australian Powerhouse
Albion Athletic is a team that combines the best of British and Australian rugby. The women's squad is led by the formidable Abbie Brown and Isabella Nasser, both of whom were recognized for their exceptional skills in the SVNS Dream Team of the Year. The men's team is equally impressive, with the addition of Tristan Leyds, the Men's SVNS Player of the Year, and Charlton Kerr, the Great Britain captain, making them a force to be reckoned with.
Clan Taran: Southern Hemisphere Dominance
This team showcases the talent of the Southern Hemisphere, with a strong New Zealand and Australian influence. The women's side features the dynamic duo Jazmin Felix-Hotham and Roderick Solo, both of whom are known for their agility and precision. Joining them are the Aussie Heidi Dennis and the Blitzbok Shilton van Wyk, a powerful combination that will undoubtedly create exciting gameplay.
Foudre Bleue: French Excellence
Foudre Bleue is a team that embodies the spirit of French rugby. The men's side is led by the Paris gold medalist Antoine Zeghdar and his teammate Paulin Riva, a powerful combination that will undoubtedly create exciting gameplay. The women's team is equally impressive, with the addition of the XVs convert Valentine Lothoz and the Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Carla Neisen, further solidifying their position as a top contender.
As the draft concludes this week, all teams will have their squads finalized, and the stage will be set for an unforgettable tournament. With such a diverse and talented lineup, the 2026 Ultimate Sevens is poised to be a spectacular event, showcasing the very best of the sport on a global stage.
