Jena, 06.07.2026 – Next weekend, Jena will become the center of East German rugby: The renowned “Beast from the East 7s” tournament will take place on July 11 and 12, 2026, featuring around 25 teams competing for key rankings.
- What: Rugby 7s tournament “Beast from the East 7s”
- When: Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026
- Where: Jena (Organizer: East German Lions – Supporters Group e.V.)
- Participants: Around 25 teams from Germany and abroad
Pivotal decisions for East German rugby
The tournament holds outstanding sporting significance for the East German rugby region. The faster and more dynamic version of classic rugby, the Olympic Rugby Sevens (7s), is attracting top-tier teams to Thüringen. In Jena, the decision for the women’s cup final will be made. Furthermore, the coveted final qualifying spots for the 2026 German Championship finals in Hannover will be contested here, turning the matches into intense battles.
In the men’s division, already qualified teams are using the high-caliber field of participants to fine-tune their tactics for the upcoming final round. Hosting such a tournament underscores Jena’s growing role as a sporting hub in the new federal states.
Festive atmosphere for the whole family
In addition to the high-class sport on the pitch, the organizers of the East German Lions place great importance on an inviting event atmosphere. The tournament weekend is designed as a festival for the entire region. Spectators and families can expect a varied supporting program on Saturday and Sunday:
- Interactive stations: Visitors can pick up the oval ball themselves at special rugby stations and try out basic techniques.
- Family activities: Child-friendly activities ensure that even the youngest guests get their money’s worth.
- Festival atmosphere: A wide range of culinary offerings and musical accompaniment round off the sports weekend.
The organizers’ goal is to reduce reservations about the dynamic contact sport and to sustainably increase the popularity of rugby in Eastern Germany.
Source:
International Rugby Tournament in Jena
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.