By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
After leading the Springboks to their second consecutive World Cup trophy and fourth title, Siya Kolisi returned to France to embark on his new journey at Racing 92.
Kolisi had been granted an early release from his Sharks contract in January to join French outfit Racing after the 2023 World Cup.
The loose forward was welcomed by Racing 92’s President Jacky Lorenzetti.
Welcome Home @SiyaKolisi ?#RacingFamily pic.twitter.com/b1mcpCUh1j
— Racing 92 (@racing92) November 9, 2023
“It is an honour for me to be here,” Kolisi said.
“The boys have been very welcoming and all the staff have been really good.”
Premiers pas en Ciel et Blanc @SiyaKolisi
????? ????? ?? ? ????????? ?#RacingFamily pic.twitter.com/Ab96kr53k6— Racing 92 (@racing92) November 9, 2023
He has just completed a countrywide trophy tour in celebration of the South Africans’ defence of their title, and is expected to link up with his new club next week, along with Bok teammate Trevor Nyakane.
The Springbok captain has put pen to paper on a three year deal that will keep him in Paris until 2026.
Kolisi joined the Sharks in 2021 having previously lined out for the Stormers and he departs with their blessing. As hinted in his statement, the move comes as part of a new collaboration between Racing and the Stormers, one which will feature quarterly meetings of owners and management and an exchange of ideas about player sharing, coaching and branding.