Belgium Women's Sevens coach Warren Abrahams dies in Nairobi

Belgium’s national women’s sevens team head coach Warren Abrahams has passed away in Nairobi while leading his side at the Safari Sevens tournament.

Abrahams, originally from Durbanville in Cape Town, collapsed at Nyayo Stadium on Friday and was treated at the scene before being rushed to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

A former player with Durbanville-Bellville and Stellenbosch University, Abrahams built a respected coaching career renowned for his innovation and leadership in the sevens format.

He worked with Harlequins, England Sevens, and USA Rugby before taking charge of Wales Women in 2020. Most recently, he had been guiding Belgium’s women’s side with notable progress.

Belgium immediately withdrew from the Nairobi tournament, with the federation praising Abrahams as “more than a coach, but a mentor, leader, and kind human being.” Players have since returned home and are receiving psychological support.

“Warren was so much more than a coach, he was a mentor, a leader and above all, a kind and generous human being,” the Belgium federation said.

“His smile, wisdom and calm strength he brought ton the team will never be forgotten…

"The team has returned to Belgium already and will continue to receive psychological support to help them process this personal loss. Our thoughts are with Warren’s family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.”

The Kenya Rugby Union also issued a statement expressing “deep sorrow” over his passing, describing him as a dedicated professional whose influence will be long remembered.