SA Rugby and Hyundai Automotive South Africa announced on Thursday that they had expanded their historic four-year rugby and automotive collaboration, which will now also include the Springboks and all other national teams.
The popular automotive brand was announced in April as the official vehicle of South Africa’s junior national teams and Youth Week rugby tournaments. Today’s announcement marks the extension of Hyundai’s partnership as the official vehicle partner of the Springboks, Springbok Women and Springbok Sevens men’s and women’s teams.
The confirmation of the expanded relationship underlines the theme of the new partnership: United by Rugby. Driven by Hyundai.
“We are delighted to confirm the expansion of the relationship with Hyundai Automotive South Africa to encompass the entire Springbok family and look forward to a mutually-beneficial and long journey ahead – on and off the field,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
“As a brand, Hyundai has earned a global reputation for building reliable, durable, and best-quality vehicles. Their brand philosophy aligns with our values.”
“We are very grateful for Hyundai’s commitment to solving our transportation needs. We are always on the move and from now on, SA Rugby will be driven by Hyundai.”
Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, said: “This powerful alliance brings together two iconic brands, each known for strength, excellence, innovation and reliability. Whether on the road or on the rugby field, both Hyundai and the Springboks share a commitment to pushing boundaries and inspiring greatness.”
“It is therefore such a befitting honour for us to be an official vehicle partner of the reigning World Champions, having won the Rugby World Cup four times!”
As a vehicle partner, SA Rugby gains access to a fleet of Hyundai’s award-winning, cutting-edge and stylish vehicles that meet the organisation’s transport requirements – whether transporting players, staff or equipment: efficiently, comfortably and safely.
The collaboration kicks-off with joint stadium activations during the Castle Lager Incoming Series and the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, where fans will get to experience the synergy between world-class rugby and automotive excellence.
The Springboks represent more than just rugby – they are known for their strong team spirit and collective effort, which has been crucial to their global success.
Tweety Bun Bun
Richie McCaw, a former All Blacks captain, is one of the most capped rugby players in history, with 148 international appearances. He is also a three-time winner of the World Rugby Player of the Year award (2006, 2009, and 2010).
Dorothy Solitaire
South Africa’s triumph in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, held in South Africa, was a symbol of unity for the nation, with the iconic image of Nelson Mandela wearing a Springbok jersey while handing the trophy to captain Francois Pienaar. This event was immortalized in the 2009 film “Invictus.”