South Africa’s sevens side heads to Spain after another impressive season that included tournament wins in Cape Town, Perth, Vancouver, New York and Hong Kong.
South Africa (28 May 2026) – The Springbok Sevens are heading into another massive weekend with confidence sky-high and with good reason.
The Blitzboks have been one of the standout teams on the global sevens circuit over the last two seasons, collecting titles in Cape Town, Perth, Vancouver, New York and Hong Kong while continuing to build serious momentum ahead of the World Championship event in Spain.
Now, the South Africans are back on the road and chasing more silverware.
One of the exciting returns for the squad is rising star Gino Cupido, who is back in the mix after recovering from injury.
Cupido, who made an instant impression when he scored with his very first touch on Blitzboks debut in Hong Kong last season, admitted he is grateful to be back with the squad after missing some of the team’s big moments earlier this year.
“It is great to be back, especially as I was cleared a bit earlier than originally planned, and to be part of the World Championship is great,” he said from Valladolid.
The journey to Spain was not without drama either.
The Blitzboks were delayed in Amsterdam after a flat aeroplane tyre and rough landing before eventually making the long trip from Madrid to Valladolid. Still, the squad appeared to take it all in stride.
“It all was worth it, as we are the privileged ones to be here,” Cupido said.
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“One thing about this squad, our wins are literally for everyone involved, whether we are part of the squad or back home,” he said.
South Africa’s confidence has only continued to grow after finally conquering the famous Hong Kong Sevens title earlier this year with a dominant 35-7 victory over Argentina in the final. That win felt especially significant for the Blitzboks, with Hong Kong long viewed as one of the most iconic tournaments in world sevens rugby.
But despite all the trophies and celebrations, the squad knows there is little room to relax.
“There is a target on our backs, and every team wants to beat us, so there will be no time to fool around,” Cupido added.
The Blitzboks open their campaign in Spain against Great Britain and Kenya on Friday before facing Australia on Saturday as they continue their push for more global success.
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