The Springbok Sevens (Blitzboks) are the kings of the world once again. In a winner-takes-all battle at Sports Illustrated Stadium, South Africa defeated Fiji 10-7 to secure the 2025/26 HSBC SVNS regular-season title.
The victory completes a massive turnaround for the Blitzboks under the guidance of coach Philip Snyman.
Both teams arrived in New Jersey deadlocked on 86 points at the top of the standings, making the New York final the ultimate decider. South Africa took control early in the first half, building on an early 5-0 surge to set the tone while Fiji struggled to find their rhythm.
“The Blitzboks have done it! Congratulations to coach Philip Snyman, Captain Impi and all the boys. What a fantastic comeback during this season!” – JAY
The road to the final was a test of grit for the South Africans, who had to overcome significant injury setbacks. Tristan Leyds and Dewald Human were ruled out during the pool stages, forcing the squad to dig deep into their reserves.
Veteran playmaker Selvyn Davids stepped up in their absence, reaching a career milestone of 101 series tries during the tournament. The Blitzboks’ path to the trophy included a 22-7 thrashing of New Zealand and a tough 14-5 semi-final win over Argentina.
Sebastiaan Jobb proved a nightmare for defenders throughout the weekend, scoring a brace against the All Blacks Sevens to set the tone. Captain Impi Visser led the side with distinction in what was his landmark 50th HSBC SVNS tournament.
The title is South Africa’s first regular-season crown since 2021, following tournament wins in Perth and Vancouver earlier this season. By finishing as league winners, the Blitzboks secure the top seeding for the upcoming World Championship.
According to SA Rugby, the team’s defensive pressure and breakdown dominance were the deciding factors in neutralizing the Fijian attack. The South African side will now return home with the silverware after a season-long duel that went down to the final whistle in New York.
Photos via SA Rugby / HSBC SVNS
