The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has announced the sudden death of Belgium rugby coach Warren Abrahams, who passed away in Nairobi on Friday, October 10.
In a statement on Sunday, October 12, the union confirmed that the coach passed away while accompanying the Belgium national sevens team for the 2025 Safari Sevens tournament.
"The Kenya Rugby Union deeply mourns the untimely demise of Warren Abrahams, Coach of the Belgium National Sevens Team, who passed away on Friday, 10th October while on tour for the 2025 Safari Sevens in Nairobi," the statement read.
The Kenya Rugby Union expressed sorrow over his passing and extended condolences to all those affected by the loss.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Belgium Rugby fraternity during this difficult time. Warren’s passion, professionalism, and dedication to the game will be fondly remembered by all," the statement added.
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Abrahams began his rugby journey playing for Durbanville-Bellville and later represented Maties (Stellenbosch University), one of South Africa’s most respected rugby institutions.
In 2007, at the age of 23, he made the bold decision to move to the United Kingdom to pursue a coaching career, starting from humble beginnings in community rugby.
After arriving in England, Abrahams immersed himself in the grassroots scene, taking on various coaching roles at schools and local clubs.
His commitment and talent soon earned him a place within the Harlequins Rugby Club system, where he started in their community programme before advancing to work with their academy.
Abrahams’ international coaching career began to take shape when he took up assignments with European nations such as Germany and Lithuania.
Working with these developing rugby programs, particularly in Lithuania, he achieved significant progress despite language barriers, helping the team perform strongly in European competitions.
His growing reputation led him to roles with the England Sevens setup, where he worked closely with academy squads and upcoming players who were transitioning to the elite level.
Later, he joined the USA Rugby program as an assistant coach for the USA Women’s Sevens team, helping prepare them for international competitions, including the Olympic Games.
However, his stint in the United States was cut short when USA Rugby faced financial difficulties and entered bankruptcy proceedings.
In November 2020, Abrahams reached a historic milestone when he was appointed head coach of the Wales Women’s national rugby team, overseeing both the 15s and Sevens programs.
His appointment was groundbreaking as he became Wales’ first Black national team coach.
Abrahams was tasked with revitalizing the women’s program, developing players’ confidence, and introducing a more dynamic and modern playing style.
Abrahams’ tenure with Wales was relatively short.
In July 2021, less than a year after his appointment, he left the position by mutual agreement with the Welsh Rugby Union to “pursue other ventures.”
Following his departure, Abrahams continued to be involved in international rugby development and he later became head coach of the Belgium National Sevens Team.
