Springboks Lose Main Sponsor After 8-Year Partnership
- The Springboks' eight-year sponsorship deal with MTN has officially ended, marking a major shift for the team
- Under MTN’s sponsorship, the Springboks won two Rugby World Cups (2019 and 2023), reinforcing their dominance in international rugby
- With MTN’s exit, the Springboks have now secured a new primary sponsor to support their continued growth and success
MTN has concluded its eight-year sponsorship deal with South Africa’s national rugby team, the Springboks.
The telecommunications company had been the team's primary sponsor since 2015, supporting them through significant milestones, including two Rugby World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023.
Source: Getty Images
Sponsorship Milestones
During its partnership with the Springboks, MTN played a key role in supporting the team both on and off the field.
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The sponsorship was marked by the team’s achievements, most notably their victories in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
These wins were significant moments in South African rugby history, and MTN was at the forefront of supporting the team throughout these campaigns.
End of a Successful Partnership
The partnership between MTN and the Springboks was built on mutual support and shared goals.
MTN’s involvement extended beyond financial backing, as the brand engaged fans through digital content, social media activations, and community-driven initiatives.
The Springboks’ success during this period helped solidify MTN’s association with one of South Africa’s most iconic sports teams.
Source: Getty Images
FNB Takes Over as Principal Sponsor
Following the conclusion of MTN’s sponsorship, SA Rugby has announced an expanded partnership with FNB, making the bank the principal sponsor of all national rugby teams.
The FNB logo, previously positioned on the shoulders of the Springboks' jersey, will now take center stage on the front of the playing kits for the Springboks, Springbok Women, Blitzboks, and all age-group teams. The first appearance of the FNB-branded Springbok jersey will be on July 5, 2025, against Italy in Pretoria.
FNB executives emphasized their commitment to South African rugby, highlighting their investment in grassroots development and their continued support of transformation in the sport.
Harry Kellan, CEO of FNB, emphasized the bank's pride in deepening its partnership with the Springboks, building on a history of support since 2017.
Rugby has unified our country and offered a global platform for South Africa’s talent," Kellan stated.
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, welcomed the move, highlighting FNB’s role in fostering youth development through initiatives like Varsity Cup and Classic Clashes.
Rassie Erasmus Reflects on Nearly Overlooking Makazole Mapimpi
Briefly News previously reported that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus almost overlooked Makazole Mapimpi’s potential early in his career due to initial mistakes, including consecutive knock-ons in 2018.
Despite Erasmus’ doubts, assistant coach Mzwandile Stick discovered Mapimpi’s knee injury and helped shift Erasmus’ perspective.
This intervention allowed Mapimpi to continue with the team, eventually becoming one of South Africa’s greatest wingers.
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Source: Briefly News
