South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks, will return to the Eastern Cape for the first time since 2021 when they take on Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the second Test of the Castle Lager Incoming Series on 12 July 2025. SA Rugby confirmed the venues for the six home Tests on Thursday, setting the stage for an exciting international season.

The Boks will kick off their campaign against Italy at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on 5 July, marking the Azzurri’s first visit to South Africa since 2013 and their maiden Test appearance in Gauteng. Their Eastern Cape encounter will be the first between the two nations in Gqeberha since 2001.
The last time the Springboks played at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium was during two Tests against Argentina in 2021, held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 restrictions. This time, fans will be able to witness the action live as the Boks return to a packed stadium.

The Castle Lager Incoming Series concludes on 19 July with a historic showdown against Georgia at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. It will be only the third Test between the sides, following their previous encounters at the 2003 Rugby World Cup in Sydney and in Pretoria in 2021—both played in empty stadiums due to pandemic restrictions.

Rugby Championship Title Defence
The Springboks will launch their 2025 Castle Lager Rugby Championship campaign with back-to-back home Tests against Australia—first at Emirates Airline Park in Johannesburg on 16 August, then at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on 23 August.

They will then embark on a challenging New Zealand tour, facing the All Blacks in Auckland on 6 September and Wellington on 13 September.

The Boks’ final home Test of the season will take place on 27 September against Argentina at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in Durban, before closing their campaign with an away fixture against the Pumas at Twickenham in London a week later.

Excitement Builds for 2025
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his enthusiasm for the season ahead, particularly the return to Gqeberha. “The confirmation of the Test venues always brings excitement and allows us to intensify our planning,” Erasmus said. “We’ve played at most of these venues in recent years, but returning to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for the first time since 2021 will be special. The passionate support from our home crowds is something we value deeply, and playing in a packed stadium in the Eastern Cape will be fantastic.”

Erasmus also highlighted the team’s preparations: “We are already well into our planning phase from a coaching, logistics, and operational perspective, and it’s exciting to see how things are coming together for another challenging season.”

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of bringing the Boks to different provinces. “With over 300,000 fans attending our home Tests last year, we are thrilled to have the team play across five provinces in 2025,” Oberholzer said. “This allows as many supporters as possible to experience the thrill of live Test rugby.”

Ticketing details will be announced in due course.

Springbok Home Fixtures – 2025

Castle Lager Incoming Series
5 July – South Africa vs Italy - Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
12 July – South Africa vs Italy - Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha
19 July – South Africa vs Georgia - Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Castle Lager Rugby Championship
16 August – South Africa vs Australia - Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg
23 August – South Africa vs Australia -DHL Stadium, Cape Town
27 September – South Africa vs Argentina - Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Double Rugby World Cup-winning assistant coach Felix Jones is set to rejoin the Springboks, reconnecting with head coach Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff as part of the national team’s management group. Jones, who played a pivotal role in South Africa’s triumphant 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns, will resume his assistant coaching duties on March 1, 2025, following a brief tenure with England. The announcement came on Thursday as Erasmus unveiled his revamped management team, signaling an exciting phase for the Springboks as they gear up for the next World Cup cycle, culminating in Australia in 2027.

Joining Jones in the fold are Lance Lemmetjies, who will bolster the medical team as one of two physiotherapists starting in June, and Robyn Moore, appointed as the team dietician effective April 1. These additions bring a blend of familiarity and expertise to a squad determined to maintain its status among the world’s elite rugby nations.
Jones’ return marks a homecoming of sorts after his decision to join England post-2023 World Cup, a move driven by a desire to be closer to his family in the UK.

His time with England has only enhanced his credentials, offering him a firsthand perspective on northern hemisphere rugby, including the Six Nations and international competitions. Erasmus highlighted the value of this experience, noting, “After spending some time in England, his knowledge of working in the UK and studying opposition teams will add immense value as we prepare for a tough international season ahead.” “Felix was a vital cog in the coaching team from 2019 to 2023,” Erasmus said. “His experience, professionalism, and excellent work ethic will make him a great addition to the fantastic coaching team we’ve built since the beginning of 2024. We’re delighted to welcome him back and excited to see him pick up where he left off.” Jones’ prior collaboration with most of the current Springbok coaches ensures a seamless reintegration, while his ability to work closely with newer members like Jerry Flannery and Tony Brown—both of whom joined last season—promises to further strengthen the team’s strategic depth.

The Springboks’ ambitions extend beyond maintaining their current success. “As a team, we know we need to keep improving and growing if we want to remain one of the best teams in the world and give ourselves the best chance to defend our World Cup title in 2027,” Erasmus emphasized. “Felix, along with the rest of the coaching and support staff, will play a key role in guiding us toward that goal.”

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer echoed Erasmus’ enthusiasm, praising the trio’s expertise and their potential impact. “We all know the value Felix added during his time with the Springboks, and we’re confident his presence will further strengthen the coaching group,” Oberholzer said. “Lance and Robyn’s roles behind the scenes are equally critical, ensuring the players have everything they need to perform at their best. These additions will benefit Rassie and his staff immensely as we build on our recent success.

The Springboks’ preparations for the upcoming season will kick off in earnest with a coaching planning block starting Friday, March 7, followed by an alignment camp in Cape Town from Monday, March 10, involving 56 players. Additional virtual camps on March 27 will include Japanese and European-based players, as well as a select group of talented and injured domestic athletes, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the team’s development.

With Jones back in the mix, alongside Lemmetjies and Moore, the Springboks are poised to blend continuity with fresh perspectives as they set their sights on a third consecutive Rugby World Cup triumph in 2027. For a team accustomed to defying the odds, this latest chapter promises to be another compelling step in their storied journey.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The Vodacom Bulls roared back to form in a pulsating Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) Gauteng derby, overcoming a spirited Emirates Lions side with a 31-19 bonus-point victory at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. After a disappointing loss to the Hollywoodbets Sharks last weekend, the Bulls turned the tide in front of their home faithful, outscoring their Johannesburg rivals five tries to three and reaffirming their status as one of the competition’s heavyweights.

The current SA Shield holders wasted no time asserting their dominance, racing to a 17-0 lead within the first 12 minutes. Wing Canan Moodie, fullback Willie le Roux, and scrumhalf Sebastian de Klerk all crossed the whitewash in a blistering opening spell that showcased the Bulls’ attacking intent. However, the momentum shifted when centre Stedman Gans was shown a yellow card for a cynical infringement, allowing Lions centre Henco van Wyk to score and narrow the gap. Six minutes later, hooker PJ Botha powered over for the visitors, reducing the deficit to just three points at 17-14 by halftime. The Lions might have leveled the scores or even taken the lead, but uncharacteristic errors at critical moments kept them at bay.

The second half saw the Bulls seize control once more. Just two minutes after the restart, Lions fullback Quan Horn was sin-binned, and the hosts capitalized immediately. Moodie bagged his second try of the afternoon following a slick passing move, with flyhalf David Kriel’s conversion pushing the score to 24-14. The Lions struggled to regain their footing as penalties mounted, and Bulls flank Marco van Staden sealed the bonus point with a try in the 55th minute, inflating the lead to 31-14.

Despite the mounting scoreboard pressure, the Emirates Lions refused to roll over. Their forwards and backs combined brilliantly to pile pressure on the Bulls’ defense, dominating possession and territory for extended periods. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when wing Richard Kriel dotted down, sparking hopes of a late comeback at 31-19. However, the Johannesburgers’ aspirations were dashed by a string of errors and a disallowed try due to foul play, allowing the Bulls to close out the game and secure a vital win.

The victory propels the Vodacom Bulls to 40 log points after 11 matches, solidifying their third-place standing on the URC table behind Glasgow Warriors (42) and runaway leaders Leinster (52). Meanwhile, the Emirates Lions remain anchored in 12th with 23 points, one point shy of the DHL Stormers in 10th and four behind eighth-placed Scarlets, though they hold a game in hand after completing only 10 fixtures.
Reflecting on the match, the Bulls’ early blitz and second-half resilience proved decisive, while the Lions will rue missed opportunities that could have turned the tide. The local derbies roll on next weekend, with the Emirates Lions set to host the Hollywoodbets Sharks in Johannesburg and the Vodacom Bulls facing another stern test against the DHL Stormers in Pretoria.

Scorers:

Vodacom Bulls (17) 31 – Tries: Canan Moodie (2), Willie le Roux, Sebastian de Klerk, Marco van Staden. Conversions: David Kriel (3).

Emirates Lions (14) 19 – Tries: Henco van Wyk, PJ Botha, Richard Kriel. Conversions: Gianni Lombard (2).

Photo: Vodacom Bulls
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Ryan Rickelton announced his arrival on the global stage with a scintillating maiden ODI century, steering South Africa to a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan in their Champions Trophy opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday. The 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batter’s 103 off 106 balls underpinned a formidable total of 315-6, setting the tone for a clinical performance by the Proteas in their first ICC event match of the tournament.

Making his debut appearance in an ICC competition, Rickelton admitted to pre-match jitters but quickly settled into a rhythm that earned him the Player of the Match award. “I was a little nervous, being my first game in an ICC event, but I’m obviously delighted with how it went—especially with the result,” he said post-match. His knock, laced with elegant strokeplay, showcased both resilience and flair on a surface he described as challenging. “It wasn’t the easiest pitch I’ve played on, but all credit to the other guys for getting us to a competitive total.”

Rickelton’s innings came to an unlucky end in the 39th over when a sharp throw from Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan—his MI Cape Town teammate—found him short of his ground. Diving back to his crease, Rickelton appeared to have made it, only for replays to reveal his bat had bounced above the line, leaving him stranded on 103. Reflecting on the dismissal, he quipped, “I said to Rash that he threw the ball at my head, so I had to get out of the way. It was unfortunate because we were probably looking to pull the trigger a few overs later.”

Despite his exit, South Africa’s middle order seized the initiative. Captain Temba Bavuma (34) and Rassie van der Dussen (47) provided stability, while Aiden Markram’s unbeaten 67 off 49 balls injected late impetus with a flurry of boundaries. “All credit to the guys who came in after me for still pulling the trigger,” Rickelton noted, singling out Markram’s composure. Contributions from David Miller (28) and Marco Jansen (19*) further bolstered the total, ensuring Afghanistan faced a daunting chase.

In response, Afghanistan struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Proteas attack. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (42) and Ibrahim Zadran (38) offered early resistance, but the introduction of Keshav Maharaj (2-34) and Kagiso Rabada (3-46) triggered a collapse. Rashid Khan’s 27 was a lone bright spot as Afghanistan folded for 208 in the 44th over, with Lungi Ngidi (2-39) and Marco Jansen (1-28) mopping up the tail.

The victory hands South Africa a strong start in Group B, where they will face sterner tests against Australia on Tuesday and defending champions England on Saturday, March 1. For Rickelton and the Proteas, the tone has been set—this is a team ready to compete on the big stage.

Teams:
South Africa: Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad


Photo: Getty Images
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Today, I find myself in Johannesburg, South Africa, immersed in the vibrant energy of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. This is the first meeting of its kind to be held on African Soil. The air is thick with anticipation and tension as leaders, diplomats, and ministers from the world’s largest economies gather under the shadow of Nasrec Expo Centre. This is no ordinary meeting—it’s South Africa’s moment to lead as the G20 presidency holder for 2025, and I’m here to witness history unfold.

The G20, formed back in 1999, was originally a response to the Asian financial crisis, uniting finance ministers and central bankers from twenty of the world’s most significant economies to stabilize global markets. Since then, it’s grown into something much bigger. Elevated in 2008 to include heads of state, the group—which now comprises 19 countries, the European Union, and, as of 2023, the African Union—represents over 85% of global economic output, 75% of world trade, and 80% of the planet’s population. Its purpose? To coordinate policy on everything from trade and health to climate change and geopolitical crises. Past summits have tackled the 2008 financial meltdown with a $4 trillion stimulus, debated Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and even brokered partial ceasefires in Syria. But today, as I walk among the delegates, it’s clear the group’s unity is fraying, and South Africa is stepping into this fractured spotlight with a bold agenda.

Under South Africa’s 2025 presidency, the theme feels urgent and ambitious: addressing the challenges of a world divided by war, economic disparity, and environmental collapse. President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the meeting , with a powerful call for multilateralism and adherence to international law. Standing at the podium, his voice carried a weight of conviction as he warned that “an already fragile global coexistence” is at risk. He’s not wrong—geopolitical rifts, especially over Russia’s war in Ukraine, loom large. The absence of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscores the strain; the U.S. pulled back after President Donald Trump cut aid to South Africa, citing disputes over land reform and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s presence here stirs the pot further, with EU nations vocally supporting Ukraine just across the room.

South Africa’s G20 agenda builds on the momentum of recent years. In 2023, India brought the African Union into the fold, amplifying the voice of 1.3 billion people and a $3.1 trillion economy. Last year in Rio, Brazil’s President Lula pushed for a “Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty” and reforms to make global institutions like the UN and World Bank more responsive to developing nations. Now, South Africa is doubling down. Ramaphosa’s vision for 2025 centers on equity—tackling food insecurity, climate resilience, and economic recovery for the Global South. There’s talk of strengthening the G20’s Common Framework for debt relief, which has faltered since 2020, with only four countries benefiting so far. Emerging economies, battered by inflation and a strong U.S. dollar, need more than promises—they need action.

As I wander the halls, the diversity of voices is striking. Delegates from Argentina, China, India, and Saudi Arabia mingle with those from Canada, Germany, and Japan. Spain’s here too, a permanent guest, while the AU’s presence feels like a quiet revolution. Yet, beneath the diplomatic smiles, divisions simmer. Climate change, a perennial G20 focus, remains a sticking point—China and India resist firm coal phaseouts, and post-Ukraine energy crises have some nations backtracking on fossil fuel pledges. Trump’s recent reelection and his talk of a “universal tariff” add another layer of uncertainty. Will the U.S. pull further away from the free trade principles the G20 once championed?

The sidelines, though, are where the real drama unfolds. I catch whispers of bilateral meetings—tense exchanges between EU officials and Lavrov, a warm handshake between Brazil’s envoy and South Africa’s foreign minister. These impromptu talks often outshine the main agenda, like when Trump met Putin in 2017 or Biden and Xi faced off in 2022. .
Reflecting on it all, I can’t help but feel the weight of Ramaphosa’s words, and hope that they are truthful and meaningful. The G20 matters because it’s a microcosm of our world—messy, powerful, and teetering on the edge of cooperation or collapse. South Africa’s push for unity through law and equity feels like a plea to hold it together. As the sun sets over Johannesburg, I wonder: can this fractured group still rise to the moment?

Tomorrow’s sessions will tell. For now, I’m just grateful to be here, scribbling notes in the heart of it all and speaking to some of the most powerful people on the globe.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

South Africa made history as the first African nation to assume the G20 Presidency, hosting its inaugural Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg at the Nasrec Expo Centre. Under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,”

President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the two-day event, emphasizing the interconnected challenges of geopolitical tensions, rising intolerance, conflict, climate change, pandemics, and energy and food insecurity. He stressed the need for inclusive, coordinated responses, noting the significance of hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Africa later this year to amplify African voices on sustainable development, the digital economy, and green energy.

The first day’s discussions reflected both promise and tension. Ramaphosa called the G20 an opportunity for collaboration amid strained South Africa-U.S. relations—marked by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s absence—and growing U.S.-EU friction. “The nations of the world look to the G20 for leadership,” he said, advocating for a globally representative UN Security Council and citing conflicts in Ukraine, Congo, Sudan, the Sahel, and Gaza.
He welcomed the Israel-Hamas ceasefire as a step toward peace, urging diplomatic solutions rooted in international law.

South Africa’s G20 priorities took center stage: enhancing disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability, mobilizing just energy transition finance, and leveraging critical minerals for inclusive growth. Ramaphosa highlighted the debt crisis—where 3.3 billion people live in nations prioritizing interest payments over health or education—and pressed for climate finance from high-emission countries to support vulnerable ones. Day two will build on these themes, focusing on Africa’s development via Agenda 2063.

Despite a lack of consensus among G20 nations, representing two-thirds of the global population, Ramaphosa’s call for solidarity and reform set a bold tone for a presidency aiming to bridge divides and champion equality.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

On the evening of 2/17/25 a fire broke out at the SPS Technologies facility in Montgomery County, PA, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and prompting a swift response from local emergency crews. The blaze, which ignited in part of the industrial complex known for manufacturing aerospace components, drew attention from nearby residents and commuters. Firefighters worked diligently to contain the fire, while officials continue to investigate the cause. No injuries have been reported at this time.

For the first time, Africa will host the G20 Summit, marking a historic milestone under the theme Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability. For South Africa, this presents a crucial opportunity to boost tourism, attract investment, and strengthen its global economic standing.

Since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in July 2024, South Africa has seen positive economic momentum. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has performed well, government bond yields have declined from 11.04% to 9.36%, and S&P Global Ratings has upgraded the country's outlook to positive. The strengthening rand and rising foreign direct investment (FDI) highlight renewed confidence in South Africa’s economic trajectory.

The G20 Summit is expected to drive significant economic activity. Thousands of international delegates, including government officials, business leaders, and media representatives, will generate increased demand for accommodation, hospitality, and local services. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the tourism sector employed 1.46 million people in 2023, a figure projected to reach 1.7 million in the short term. Tourism’s contribution to GDP has grown from 8.2% in 2023 to 8.8% in 2024, with expectations for continued expansion.

Additionally, the Tourism Ministers G20 Meeting and Tourism Investment Conference, set for September 2025 in Mpumalanga, will showcase South Africa’s tourism potential and drive further investment into the sector.

South Africa has proven its ability to host major international events, with the 15th BRICS Summit and 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in 2023 successfully attracting global leaders. The G20 Summit will further cement its position as a top-tier destination for high-profile gatherings.

South Africa’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry is a key growth driver. Valued at $6.6 billion in 2023, the sector is expected to expand fourfold by 2031, reaching $25.9 billion. Meanwhile, the country has secured bids to host 25 international business events by 2029, contributing over R240 million to the economy. Between April and August 2024, 48 additional bids were submitted, with an estimated impact of R586 million.

In trade, South Africa recorded a R12.8 billion surplus in September 2024, with China, Germany, and the US as key partners. The G20 Summit provides a platform to deepen these relationships and position South Africa as a critical hub for global investment.

The country’s air travel infrastructure has rebounded strongly, with 72 international routes serviced by 55 airlines, offering over 7.8 million seats across 52,000 flights. Domestic capacity has also surged, with 18 million seats in 2024 and 4.2 million seats projected for Q1 2025. The Route Development Marketing Strategy, recently approved by the government, aims to further expand South Africa’s aviation network, supporting increased visitor arrivals.

Beyond business, G20 delegates will experience South Africa’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes across all nine provinces. The government is actively promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and lesser-known destinations to ensure broad-based economic benefits.

With 40 heads of state expected to attend, representing 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population, the G20 Summit is a strategic opportunity to elevate South Africa’s international profile. The event will reinforce the nation’s economic resilience, showcase its world-class infrastructure, and solidify its reputation as a premier destination for both business and leisure.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]

Tennis legend Roger Federer concluded a meaningful visit to South Africa, emphasizing his commitment to education and early childhood development. Partnering with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Federer visited schools in rural Mpumalanga and engaged with young learners, reinforcing his foundation’s efforts to improve access to quality education.

A Personal Connection to South Africa
Federer’s trip to South Africa was deeply personal. His mother, Lynette Federer, was born in Kempton Park, which has long inspired his philanthropic work in the country. Through the Roger Federer Foundation, he has actively supported early childhood education, with a specific focus on the transition from preschool to primary school in Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
During his visit, Federer, along with Kolisi, engaged in coaching clinics and toured the local villages, strengthening ties with the communities they seek to uplift.

A Shared Vision for Education and Sport
Federer and Kolisi’s partnership extends beyond the sports field. The two athletes, who became friends after Federer expressed support for the Springboks during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, share a deep commitment to social change. Kolisi, through his own foundation, focuses on gender-based violence and poverty alleviation, while Federer prioritizes early childhood education. Together, they recognize the transformative power of sport in education.
At a media briefing in Johannesburg, Federer highlighted the significance of their collaboration. “Having Siya along with us has been beautiful; he has many stories to tell, and he is an inspiration for many. Education is a natural fit for me. I started this foundation 21 years ago with my family, and I hope we can look back one day and celebrate the difference we’ve made in children’s lives.”
Kolisi echoed Federer’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of holistic child development. “Our foundation focuses on multiple aspects, including gender-based violence, poverty, and education. Sport is an essential tool, but it must be integrated with proper nutrition and academic support. We want to give children options, ensuring they stay engaged in positive activities after school.”

The Role of Sport in Education
While neither foundation is solely focused on sports, both Federer and Kolisi acknowledge its vital role in shaping young minds. Federer pointed out that in Switzerland, sport is integrated into education to enhance cognitive and social development. “Sports teach valuable life lessons—winning, losing, teamwork, and discipline,” he explained. “These are crucial skills that extend far beyond the field or court.”
Kolisi added, “When I was growing up in the township, sports kept me focused. I would go to school, play sports all day, and come home exhausted. That kept me out of trouble. If we can provide children with structured activities, we give them a foundation for success.”
Federer Foundation CEO Maya Ziswiler further emphasized the role of motor skill development in early education, noting that these fundamental abilities are critical for success in sports and overall learning.

A Lasting Commitment
Federer’s visit was unique in that he was accompanied by his entire family, further solidifying his connection to South Africa. His foundation has already benefited nearly three million children across southern Africa, investing CHF 77.5 million (R1.6 billion) in education initiatives across six countries.
With the opening of the Roger Federer Foundation’s Johannesburg office, Federer aims to strengthen long-term educational support in South Africa. “It’s important to me that my children also see the work we’re doing firsthand. This trip was special because, for the first time, my parents, wife, and four children all traveled together.”

Looking Forward
Federer and Kolisi’s collaboration is set to grow, with both athletes expressing interest in expanding their efforts to support South African youth. Kolisi hinted at introducing Federer to traditional South African cuisine, jokingly suggesting a slow introduction to chisa nyama and umngqusho.
Beyond their friendship, the two sports icons are building a legacy of social impact, ensuring that their influence extends far beyond the arenas they once dominated. As Federer noted, “We are here to do the best for children and for South Africa. The people are more important than what our foundations are doing individually. Together, we can make a real difference.”

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The Springboks will bring their 2025 Castle Lager Rugby Championship campaign to an exciting conclusion with a fixture against Argentina at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, London, on Saturday, 4 October. This encounter marks the first time the two teams will face each other on neutral ground in the prestigious southern hemisphere competition.

This will be the third consecutive year that the world champions play at the iconic Twickenham venue against international opposition, following their emphatic 35-7 victory over New Zealand in a 2023 Rugby World Cup warm-up match and a dominant 41-13 win against Wales last season.

Significantly, this fixture serves as the tournament’s closing match, following the clash between the Wallabies and All Blacks in Perth earlier that day. Depending on previous results, the match could determine the overall championship winner.

Springboks’ 2025 Rugby Championship Schedule

The Springboks will launch their title defence with two home fixtures against Australia on 16 and 23 August, before heading to New Zealand for back-to-back Tests against the All Blacks in Auckland and Wellington on 6 and 13 September. They will then return to South Africa for a home fixture against Argentina on 27 September before concluding their campaign in London. The venues for the home Tests will be announced in due course.

Excitement from Team and Rugby Officials

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his enthusiasm for the fixture:

“Playing in London is always a fantastic experience, and we look forward to facing Argentina in the UK for the first time in the Rugby Championship. The atmosphere at Allianz Stadium has been incredible over the past two years, with passionate fans creating an electric environment. Given the intense rivalry we’ve shared with Los Pumas in recent years, we anticipate another thrilling contest.”

UAR President Gabriel Travaglini also welcomed the opportunity:

“For Argentina Rugby Union, it is an honour to play against the reigning world champions at the legendary Allianz Stadium. We appreciate World Rugby and SANZAAR for this recognition, which underscores the growth and competitiveness of Argentinean rugby. This match offers a fantastic platform for our players to showcase their talent on the global stage.”

SANZAAR Chief Executive Brendan Morris highlighted the significance of the event:

“The Rugby Championship is among the world’s premier international rugby tournaments, and it is exciting to bring this marquee match between South Africa and Argentina to London. With South Africa as the reigning world champions and Argentina ranked fifth globally, this fixture promises high-quality rugby and a captivating spectacle for fans. Given its final-round placement, the match could be instrumental in deciding the 2025 championship winner.”

Ticket Information

Tickets will be available for general sale from 12:00 on Thursday, 13 February, via Ticketmaster.co.uk and England Rugby, starting at £55* for adults and £28* for Under-16s. Hospitality packages can be purchased at www.allianzstadiumtwickenham.com. (*Booking fees apply.)

Springbok Fixtures for 2025

Castle Lager Incoming Series:

5 July: South Africa vs Italy

12 July: South Africa vs Italy

19 July: South Africa vs Georgia

Castle Lager Rugby Championship:

16 August: South Africa vs Australia

23 August: South Africa vs Australia

6 September: New Zealand vs South Africa – Eden Park, Auckland

13 September: New Zealand vs South Africa – Sky Stadium, Wellington

27 September: South Africa vs Argentina

4 October: Argentina vs South Africa – Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, London
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]