Italy Sevens rugby team finishes second in Split, qualifies for SVNS3 World Series

The Italy national rugby sevens side, coached by Matteo Mazzantini, reached the final of the European 7s Championship Series in Split, Croatia, but were beaten 43‑0 by the Olympic champion France team. The silver‑place secured Italy’s qualification for the SVNS3 entry division of the World Rugby Sevens Series, to be contested in Dubai as the gateway to the 2026 World Series in the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier in the weekend Italy had progressed past Germany (21‑19) and defeated Belgium (12‑5) after a group‑stage draw with the same opponent. The tournament also saw serious injuries to Francesco Krsul of Rugby Rovigo and Giacomo Ndoumbe Lobe, both of whom were forced to leave the field.

With the second‑place finish Italy retains its spot on the global circuit for a second consecutive year, following podium finishes in Hamburg and now Split.