Bhubaneswar, Nov 15: The Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens Championship 2026 concluded at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, with Hong Kong China emerging champions in both the men’s and women’s categories.

Malaysia secured silver medals in both categories, while Chinese Taipei finished third in the men’s category. India claimed the bronze medal in the women’s category.

Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj attended the closing ceremony and felicitated the winning teams and medal winners.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said, “It is a matter of great pride for Odisha to successfully host an international-level rugby championship at the Kalinga Stadium. After a gap of eight years, an international rugby championship has returned to Odisha. A total of 17 teams from 10 countries, including 10 men’s and 07 women’s teams, participated in the championship. I congratulate all the participating teams and extend my best wishes to the medal winners for their commendable performances."

He further said that Odisha has established a distinct identity in the global sporting arena by successfully hosting several national and international sporting events. Alongside developing sporting infrastructure and hosting major competitions, the State is equally focused on nurturing sporting talent at the grassroots level.

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Expressing his satisfaction over the successful conduct of the championship, Rugby India President Rahul Bose appreciated the continued support extended by the Government of Odisha and the Department of Sports and Youth Services towards the growth and development of rugby in the State.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Sports and Youth Services Department Bhupendra Singh Poonia; Director, Sports and Youth Services, Dr Yeddul Vijay; Secretary, Rugby India, G. Prabhu; and President, Odisha Rugby Football Association, Priyadarshi Mishra were present at the closing ceremony.