International teams have started arriving for the fifth Saint Lucia International Carnival Sevens – Rugby in Paradise. The Saint Lucia Rugby Union (SLRFU) said they are excited about the competition, which marks another milestone for rugby and sports tourism in the country.
Canadian Pirates Rugby touched down on the island on Tuesday, ahead of the first whistle of the men’s and women’s tournament on Saturday, August 1, at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet. Teams from Martinique, Guyana, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands will also take part.
“The tournament has become one of the Caribbean’s premier rugby festivals, bringing together players, officials, and supporters from across the region and beyond,” said Wayne Pantor, technical director of Saint Lucia Rugby. “This year’s event will welcome international teams and participants from seven territories, creating another exciting celebration of sport, culture, and Caribbean hospitality.”
Saint Lucia will be represented by several local teams, including the Saint Lucia Select Men’s Team, Saint Lucia Academy U23, U19, and U16 squads, as well as women’s teams Blue Ice and Blue Flames.
“The tournament provides a valuable opportunity for local athletes to compete against quality international opposition while showcasing the continued growth of rugby on the island,” said Pantor, who has ushered in a youth development programme centred on the schools.
The Saint Lucia International Carnival Sevens is an important event for rugby development. It promotes youth participation, referee and coach development, volunteer engagement and stronger regional partnerships, while contributing to sports tourism and the local economy.
Away from the field, participants can enjoy Saint Lucia’s culture. They will be taking part in Gros Islet Carnival activities such as the Oil Down J’Ouvert, Knight Mas, and other events in the northern town this weekend.
The tournament is also a key part of the Saint Lucia national teams’ preparation for the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Qualifiers in November 2026. Playing against strong international teams will give them valuable experience as they get ready to compete with tough regional rivals.
