Rassie Erasmus Holds Record for Most Rugby Championship Wins as Springboks Coach
- Rassie Erasmus has guided the Springboks since 2018, winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup and boasting a near 74% success rate as coach
- The Boks’ 2025 campaign has already seen highs and lows, from dominant early victories to a shock defeat to Australia at Ellis Park
- Beyond the field, Erasmus’ career tells a remarkable story, from his playing days and coaching breakthroughs to his health battles and global recognition
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has been a central figure in South African rugby since 2018, serving as both head coach and director of rugby.
Under his guidance, the Springboks claimed World Cup glory in 2019 and have maintained a winning rate of nearly 74%, the sixth-best in team history.
Source: Getty Images
The Boks started their 2025 campaign strongly, recording wins over the Barbarians, Georgia, and Italy (twice). However, their Castle Lager Rugby Championship opener at Ellis Park against Australia ended in a 38-22 defeat, marking South Africa’s first loss to the Wallabies at home since 1963 and ending a 12-year unbeaten run against them.
Eben Etzebeth made history during that match, becoming South Africa’s most-capped Test player. The Boks avenged the defeat in their next encounter at DHL Stadium, winning 30-22.
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As South Africa prepares to face the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday, 6 September, Erasmus will be relying on his proven coaching record in the Rugby Championships.
How has Erasmus shaped the Springboks’ Success?
Erasmus’ recent win in Cape Town saw him surpass previous Eden Park records held by past coaches. Peter de Villiers had nine wins, while Jacques Nienaber matched that tally.
Heyneke Meyer held ten wins, now overtaken by Erasmus’ impressive 11 victories. His consistent record underscores his tactical acumen and ability to inspire South Africa on the global stage.
10 Things you should know about Rassie Erasmus
1. Springbok Debut: Erasmus made his first appearance for South Africa in the final Test against the British & Irish Lions in 1997, helping restore pride with a convincing win.
2. Consistent Starter: He played all 36 of his Tests, contributing to Nick Mallett’s team that won the Tri-Nations for the first time and equalled the record for 17 consecutive Test wins.
3. World Cup Experience: Part of South Africa’s 1999 World Cup squad, he famously recalled his near-miss to block Stephen Larkham’s semi-final drop goal against Australia.
4. Leadership Roles: Erasmus captained the Springboks once in 1999 and held key leadership positions with Free State and the Cats. He consistently prioritised the team over personal accolades.
5. Early Innovator: Ahead of his time, he used a computer and printer on tours in the late 1990s to analyse opposition, a rare practice then.
Source: Getty Images
6. Coaching Beginnings: While recovering from a leg injury in 2004, he coached the Free State Vodacom Cup team and later led the senior side to Currie Cup success, sharing the title with the Bulls in 2006.
7. Technical Advisor: Erasmus assisted Jake White as a technical advisor for the 2007 World Cup, contributing crucial insights behind the scenes. Players from that era still praise his work.
10. Personal Life & Nickname: Born Johan Erasmus on 5 November 1972 in Despatch, Eastern Cape, he is married to Nicolene with three daughters. Known widely as “Rassie,” he earned the nickname “DJ Rassie” early in his career.
Health Challenges: In 2019, Erasmus was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis with granulomatosis, which he managed privately during the World Cup. He and his family fully recovered from COVID-19 in 2020.
International Coaching & Return to Boks: Erasmus coached Munster in Ireland, leading them to a Pro12 final and earning Coach of the Year.
Back in South Africa, he revitalised the Springboks, achieving their first win in New Zealand in nine years and guiding them to World Cup glory, earning the World Rugby Coach of the Year award.
Springboks legend advises Erasmus
Briefly News previously reported that Springboks legend Steven Kitshoff urged coach Rassie Erasmus to reassess the team’s playing style as South Africa prepares to face the All Blacks at Eden Park on 6 September.
Erasmus named a full-strength squad packed with experience, to be captained by Jesse Kriel, while regular skipper Siya Kolisi will take on a different role, playing at number 8.
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Source: Briefly News
