Japan Finishes Sixth in SVNS World Championship, Secures Spot in 2027 Competition
The Sakura Sevens endured another challenging weekend at the final leg of the HSBC SVNS World Championship in Bordeaux, France, finishing seventh after losses to Fiji, Australia and New Zealand. While it was their lowest placing across the three-leg competition, strong performances in the opening two rounds secured sixth place overall in the World Championship standings. Combined with their results across the six-leg HSBC SVNS Series, the finish ensures Japan will retain their Core Team status for the 2027 season.
The Sakura Sevens endured another challenging weekend at the final leg of the HSBC SVNS World Championship in Bordeaux, France, finishing seventh after losses to Fiji, Australia and New Zealand. While it was their lowest placing across the three-leg competition, strong performances in the opening two rounds secured sixth place overall in the World Championship standings. Combined with their results across the six-leg HSBC SVNS Series, the finish ensures Japan will retain their Core Team status for the 2027 season.
Arriving in Bordeaux full of confidence and determined to finish the year strongly, Japan suffered an early setback with a 12-24 defeat to Fiji in their opening match. The Sakura Sevens responded with a convincing 29-14 victory over Brazil, but the opening-round loss left them facing an uphill battle heading into their final Pool B clash with Australia.
Against the Aussies, Japan played with courage and flair, scoring one of the tries of the tournament in the opening minutes. Moving the ball through multiple phases, the Sakura Sevens carved open the Australian defence before Hanako Utsumi crossed the line to score. While it was a standout moment, it was Japan’s only try in a match dominated by Australia, who ran out 7-35 winners.
Japan’s Cup Quarter-Final saw them take on another SVNS powerhouse in New Zealand. While the Black Ferns Sevens controlled much of the contest, Japan finished strongly with three late tries to narrow the margin in a 22-35 defeat, providing a reminder of the attacking threat and resilience that have become hallmarks of the Sakura Sevens.
In their final match, Japan faced Spain in the Seventh Place Play-Off. Desperate to finish their season on a high, the Sakura Sevens produced a composed and clinical display to secure the win. After a tightly contested opening period, Japan took control through disciplined defence and efficient finishing, scoring three tries to secure a 19-7 victory.
Commenting at the conclusion of the tournament, Sakura Sevens Captain Michiyo Suda said:
“Thank you for the tremendous support throughout the tournament despite the time difference back home in Japan. We approached the tournament determined to challenge in every moment of every match. Although we suffered a disappointing defeat in our opening game, the team responded by committing to our style of rugby. By playing positively in attack and defending with resilience we could showcase the rugby that defines the Sakura Sevens.
“There were many difficult moments throughout the season, but by staying united and fighting until the very end, we secured our place as a core team for next year. We’re delighted that we will have the opportunity to continue competing at this level, and personally I am proud of my teammates who gave everything for the team. Building on the experience gained this season, we will continue to challenge ourselves as we strive to grow further.”
