By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
SA Rugby have announced that the contract of Rassie Erasmus has been extended for a further four years, which means the Springbok coach is contracted for six years until 2031.
Erasmus contract with the Springboks was due to expire at the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby made the announcement to its general meeting of member unions, saying that the governing body was proud to reaffirm its commitment to excellence by extending the agreement with Erasmus until after the 2031 World Cup in the USA.
“This decision reflects not only Rassie’s remarkable track record of success, but also the enduring impact he has made in shaping the identity of our game,” said Alexander.
“Under his leadership, the Springboks have achieved historic milestones, consistently setting the standard for performance on the global stage. He has refined a style of play that is uniquely suited to our strengths – combining physicality, tactical intelligence and resilience – and in doing so, has ensured that South African rugby remains both distinctive and formidable.
“Beyond results, his tenure has been defined by vision and consistency. He has instilled a culture of accountability, unity and belief that resonates across our players, management and supporters. His ability to adapt, innovate and inspire has positioned South African Rugby as a benchmark for others, while safeguarding the traditions and values that make our game a source of national pride.”
Erasmus, a former Springbok captain, was first appointed as director of rugby in 2018 and under his guidance, the Boks won successive World Cups in 2019 and 2023.
In 2024, his title changed to Springbok head coach, and he has not only overseen South Africa winning the Castle Rugby Championship in the last two years, but they also finished the last three seasons as the top-ranked team in the world.
“This was a quick and easy conversation to reach agreement,” said Erasmus. “I have always said that I would find it hard to coach any other international team, and I’m very happy to continue as long as the South African public wants me.
“I’d like to thank SA Rugby and the franchises for the support and backing they have given me and the Springboks over the past few years. It hasn’t always been easy but we’re improving. Although this a long-term agreement we’re not looking beyond a really tough 2026 schedule right now.”
Meanwhile, South Africa announced they will take on England at altitude in the summer, with Johannesburg’s Ellis Park – nearly 1,800m above sea level – picked to stage the two teams’ eagerly-anticipated meeting on 4 July.
The Springboks will also take on Scotland at Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld (1350m up) and Wales in coastal Durban on 11 and 18 July respectively in the first round of matches in the new Nations Chmapionship.