KAMPALA, Uganda — The Webb Ellis Cup, rugby’s most coveted trophy, arrived in Uganda on Saturday, marking its first visit to the East African nation ahead of the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup. The tournament, scheduled for July 8-19 at Mandela National Stadium, also serves as Africa’s qualification pathway for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The trophy’s presence offers Ugandan rugby enthusiasts and young athletes a rare opportunity to connect with the symbol of the sport’s highest honor. Crafted in 1906 and named after William Webb Ellis, credited with inventing rugby in 1823, the Cup is awarded to the winner of the Men’s Rugby World Cup.
The Uganda Rugby Union, in partnership with Rugby Africa, will host a national reception and a series of public engagements for the Cup. Senior World Rugby delegates, including Vice Chair Jonathan Webb and Chief of International Relations David Carrigy, are accompanying the trophy, underscoring Uganda’s increasing prominence as a host for major African rugby events.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson emphasized the significance of the visit. “Africa is a region of incredible potential for our game, and Uganda’s hosting of the Webb Ellis Cup for the first time is a powerful moment in our mission to grow rugby in every corner of the globe,” Robinson said. “The trophy itself is a symbol that will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike, and with it currently held by South Africa, its presence here feels especially meaningful.”
Robinson added that World Rugby is “excited to see which African nation will rise through the Rugby Africa Cup 2025 and earn their place on the world stage at Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. This is more than a qualification journey; it’s a celebration of African rugby’s bright future.”
Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa, highlighted the trophy’s enduring legacy. “For the Webb Ellis Cup to be in Uganda for the first time, ahead of Africa’s most important qualifier, shows how far both Uganda and African rugby have come,” Mensah stated. “This is a proud moment for Uganda and for the continent. The moment belongs to every African player who dreams of lifting this trophy one day.”
During its stay, the Cup will be received as a state visit. Official engagements include a youth rugby festival at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds, a live feature on NBS Sport’s “Road to Australia 2027,” and a public display during the Rugby Africa Cup opening match at Mandela National Stadium.
Godwin Kayangwe, President of the Uganda Rugby Union, expressed the nation’s pride. “Hosting the Rugby Africa Cup, especially the 2025 edition that is also Africa’s final qualification for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, is immense for us as a country,” Kayangwe said. “The added hosting of the Webb Ellis Cup is an extraordinary honor for Uganda. It’s a powerful recognition of how far we’ve come as a rugby nation, and a symbol of the dreams we nurture across our rugby community, all the way from the grassroots to the national team.”
Wangechi Gitahi, Head of Marketing at Nile Breweries, a co-sponsor of the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, noted the inspiration the visit provides. “Welcoming the Webb Ellis Cup to Uganda is a testament to how far our rugby journey has come and the bright future that lies ahead,” Gitahi said. “We believe this moment will inspire fans and players alike to believe in the power of the game and the unity it brings.”
The Webb Ellis Cup will be displayed under strict protocols set by Rugby World Cup Limited, with dedicated security and handling measures in place. Its visit is part of broader efforts to elevate the game across Africa, encourage youth participation, and build momentum for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup.
