2025 Challenger Series – Krakow Apr 11-12: Schedule, Results, How to Watch

The final round of the 2025 HSBC Sevens Challenger is set for April 11–12 in Krakow, Poland—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Kenya heads into the qualification round with serious momentum after going back-to-back with wins at both Cape Town stops.

The top eight women’s teams—Kenya, South Africa, Argentina, Colombia, Thailand, Czechia, Poland, and Uganda—had originally booked their spots for Krakow after strong performances in the opening rounds, celebrating their International Women’s Day with qualification secured. However, Uganda has since withdrawn, and Belgium will step in as the next-highest ranked team per the Terms of Participation of the Series.

The semis have told the story so far. Kenya edged South Africa in both Cup Semifinals—19-15 and 12-5—while Argentina and Colombia have traded blows, with Argentina winning their last clash 10-5. Czechia pushed South Africa in the first stop but couldn’t break through. These are the teams setting the pace, and they’ll all be gunning for one of just four spots.

But there’s growing uncertainty about what those spots in LA actually mean. World Rugby is currently reviewing the format of the SVNS and Challenger Series, and reports suggest that even if a Challenger team beats an SVNS team in LA, it won’t guarantee promotion to the 2026 circuit. Instead, all teams—winners and losers—may be funneled into regional qualifiers for a revamped Challenger Series.

That means Krakow is still a must-win moment for teams trying to stay in the mix—but what comes next is less clear than ever. The LA Play-Off, once seen as the gateway to the main tour, may no longer carry the weight it used to.

Only four spots are up for grabs, and the Krakow round is the last shot to get in. It’s all on the line.