Defending champions AZ Alkmaar will face West Ham United in the group phase of the 2026 HKFC Standard Chartered Priority Private Soccer Sevens while debutants Leeds United are set to take on Brighton & Hove Albion, following the official draw for the globally renowned tournament, which returns to the Hong Kong Football Club from 22–24 May.

Today’s draw, headlined by former Liverpool, Manchester City and Wales player as well as current Wales manager Craig Bellamy, has placed AZ Alkmaar in Group A, where they will also contend with HKFC Captain’s Select and Hong Kong, China Representative Team. The Dutch outfit is looking to replicate the form that saw them edge Brighton & Hove Albion 1-0 in a dramatic final to claim the trophy on their debut last year.

The 2026 HKFC Standard Chartered Priority Private Soccer Sevens will showcase a global field of 16 teams in the Main Tournament, alongside 8 contenders in the Women’s Tournament and 10 storied squads in the Masters Tournament.

“We are incredibly excited about the 2026 line-up, especially as more new teams are joining for the first time.” Scott Semple, Chairman of the HKFC Soccer Sevens Organising Committee, said at the tournament draw.

“We are in for a truly fabulous contest that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. It is always a highlight to see the Sports Road pitch featuring such a dynamic mix of talent, from some of the world's best young players to the tactical brilliance of our respected veterans.”

“This high level of play is only possible through the unwavering support of our partners, and we are thankful to Standard Chartered Priority Private for their continued sponsorship, which remains the cornerstone of this world-class event.”

Leeds United will also face Hong Kong Football Club and Singapore Football Club in Group B, while seven-time winners Aston Villa will take on Larne F.C. and Singapore Cricket Club in Group C. Yokohama F. Marinos will feature in Group D, where they will be joined by Rangers, BC Rangers and Yau Yee League Select.

The Women’s Tournament enters its third year with an expanded international presence, featuring a first-time appearance from Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Urawa Reds Ladies. Rounding out the field are Welsh side Wrexham AFC, Eastern Thunder from Singapore, as well as Kitchee, Hong Kong Football Club, TSL FC, Hong Kong China Womens Representative Team Select and HKFC Captain’s Select.

In the Masters Tournament, reigning champions Ampcontrol Discovery Bay will begin their title defense in Group A alongside PFA All Stars, Singapore Cricket Club Masters, HKFC Chairman’s Select and Kowloon Cricket Club Masters. Meanwhile, Group B features a competitive line-up of teams including Yau Yee League All Stars, Wallsend Boys Club HK, Singapore Football Club Masters, HKFC Masters and Japan Select.

“We are honoured to officially launch the 27th edition of the HKFC Soccer Sevens, an event that has become a highly anticipated fixture on the international sporting calendar,” said HKFC Chairman Neil Jensen.

“The growth of the tournament over the years exemplifies Hong Kong Football Club’s enduring vision to facilitate the development of sporting activities locally.”

The event will kick off on 22 May with the Women’s and Masters Tournaments, providing a prelude to the Men’s Tournament starting 23 May. Matches will continue throughout the weekend, concluding on 24 May.

Tickets will be released soon. Stay tuned to our official social media channels for updates.