Rassie Erasmus has shut down talk of the Springboks joining the Six Nations, suggesting the northern hemisphere isn’t ready for South Africa – and may never be.
The world champions currently compete in the Rugby Championship alongside New Zealand, Australia and Argentina, but speculation has refused to go away over a potential switch to Europe’s elite tournament.
However, according to Rapport, those discussions have now collapsed. SA Rugby are understood to have failed to strike a deal with Six Nations investors CVC Capital Partners.
CVC, who play a major financial role in the competition, announced a £365million long-term investment in 2021. With that avenue seemingly closed, reports claim SA Rugby have opened talks with US-based Ackerley Partners, who are considering their own investment into the game.
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The upcoming 2026 Nations Championships introduced by World Rugby makes such a move even more unlikely, adding another layer of complexity to any potential expansion.
It would be a move that sends shockwaves through the rugby world – but Erasmus isn’t buying into the hype.
“Us joining the Six Nations? I’m not sure how that sits with other people,” Erasmus said.
“We admire the competition – when I was at Munster, I saw how big it really is.”
While fans might salivate at the idea of South Africa clashing with England, Ireland, or France every year, Erasmus sees a major obstacle – tradition.
“There are a lot of traditions that are more valuable than us just fitting in,” he added.
“This is a competition with deep heritage. I’m not sure if we can just walk in and be accepted.”
2027 Six Nations fixtures released with nightmare start for England
Round 1
The championship begins with a heavyweight clash between Ireland and England in Dublin, while Scotland host Italy and France face Wales in Paris in an opening weekend packed with early title implications.
Ireland v England – 20:10, February 5
Scotland v Italy – 14:10, February 6
France v Wales – 16:40, February 6
Round 2
Ireland travel to Italy aiming to maintain momentum, Scotland and Wales meet in a closely matched contest at Murrayfield, and England host France in the latest edition of “Le Crunch”.
Italy v Ireland – 14:10, February 13
Scotland v Wales – 16:40, February 13
England v France – 15:10, February 14