Rassie Erasmus will remain the Springboks head coach for the next six years, at least, with SA Rugby announcing that he has signed a four-year contract extension.
SA Rugby confirmed on Friday that the double Rugby World Cup-winning coach has extended his contract through to the 2031 tournament in the United States of America.
This comes after months of speculation around Erasmus‘ future, with reports suggesting that at least two overseas clubs were interested in his services.
The 53-year-old was reportedly stalling the talks as he wanted the future of his assistant coaches, Tony Brown, Jerry Flannery, Felix Jones, Daan Human, Mzwandile Stick, Deon Davids, and Duane Vermeulen to be secured through to 2031 too.
Springboks lock in Rassie Erasmus
Erasmus’ assistants’ contracts run through to the end of the 2027 World Cup in Australia with SA Rugby stating that ‘an announcement on the contract negotiations with other members of the Springbok coaching team will be made in due course.’
SA Rugby President, Mr Mark Alexander, made the announcement to SA Rugby’s general meeting of member unions this week.
“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.”
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Quick and easy
Erasmus returned to SA Rugby structures in 2018, first appointed as Director of Rugby and under his guidance, South Africa won successive Rugby 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 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. 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,” Erasmus said.
“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.”
Alexander added: “This extension is a vote of confidence in Rassie’s proven ability to deliver results, refine our strategy and inspire future generations.
“Together, we look forward to building on this foundation of success, confident that under his guidance, South African rugby will continue to thrive, lead and unite our nation through the power of the game.”