[Source: Coral Coast Fiji 7s/Facebook]

Ireland’s Terry Kennedy the 2022 World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year, will join the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select for the 2026 edition of the competition.

Kennedy is set to make his first-ever playing appearance in Fiji when he runs out at Lawaqa Park next January.

The Irish speedster, celebrated worldwide for his blistering acceleration and sharp attacking instincts, joins what is shaping up to be the strongest Mike Friday Select side ever assembled.

His inclusion also reunites him with fellow Ireland 7s stars Jordan Conroy and Harry McNulty, reigniting the core combination that helped elevate Ireland to the top tier of the global sevens stage.

Kennedy will line up alongside Fijian greats Jerry Tuwai and Semi Kunatani, as well as New Zealand’s Gillies Kaka, creating a rare blend of Irish creativity, Fijian brilliance and Kiwi sevens pedigree.

The return of Kennedy and Conroy, one of the sport’s most lethal try-scoring duos, is expected to be a major drawcard for fans.

Legendary coach Mike Friday said securing Kennedy was a massive boost to the quality of the side.

“Terry Kennedy is a game-breaker, one of the most instinctive sevens players in world rugby. To have him link up again with Jordan and Harry brings an incredible chemistry to this group, and adding Jerry, Semi and Gillies to that mix… well, that’s a dream team for any coach.”

Tournament founding chairman Jay Whyte said Kennedy’s arrival reinforces the Coral Coast 7s’ global reputation.

“Terry’s participation reinforces why the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s is the world’s best invitational 7s event. Fans are going to witness something truly special this January.”

The 2026 Coral Coast 7s will feature international superstars, national development squads and elite clubs competing for the prestigious i-Wau Trophy and a record prize purse of $50,000.

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