By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
The Vodacom Bulls announced on Friday that Willie Le Roux had signed a new deal that will see him continue to ply his trade at Loftus Versfeld until 2027.
Le Roux initially arrived on a three-year deal when he joined the Bulls in 2023, which would have run until June 2026 but the Pretoria-based franchise confirmed that “El Maestro will continue to ply his trade and mentor the next crop of stars until June 2027.”
Bulls coach Jake White has praised Le Roux for being a mentor to the younger players in the backline, as well as a kind of coach on the pitch during games.
“It is great to be able to have him extend with us,” he said.
“This is what our rugby needs: experienced campaigners to share their IP with the next crop of players. Willie has proven to us all – in a short time – just how important he is to what we are trying to achieve, I am sure his extension will be welcomed news to everyone, including players, coaches and our loyal fans.”
“South Africa will always be my home, but my teammates at the Bulls have been a big reason behind the decision to stay, ‘the Bok veteran said.
Hopefully, I can continue to guide some of the passionate younger players that are coming through over the next two years.”
“The club is special because of its fans and just what it means to put on its jersey every week we play.
“Reaching the URC Final in my first year with the club and a very special semifinal win at Loftus against a brilliant Leinster side, as well as being able to win the URC SA Shield, are all among my top highlights thus far.
Since joining the Bulls, Le Roux has made 29 appearances across the United Rugby Championship (24) and the Champions Cup (5). He has also taken his Test cap tally to 98 with the Springboks and will look to become just the eighth player to play 100 Test matches for South Africa in 2025.