The captain of the South Africa rugby team, Siya Kolisi, has described the four-match home series against New Zealand in September 2026 as a “huge” event for the Springboks and for the franchise teams that will face the All Blacks. The official announcement of the series, which marks the All Blacks’ first visit to South Africa in 30 years, has been dubbed “The Greatest Rugby Rivalry.” The Springboks will return the visit in 2030, in what will be their first tour of New Zealand in the professional era.
Kolisi, who has led the Springboks in two consecutive World Cups, expressed his enthusiasm about it.This is going to be something huge and something this generation will never forget.
Siya Kolisi
The All Blacks captain, Scott Barrett, also shared his expectations for the series.These are the tours we’ve only heard about. Experiencing this for the first time, as a Lions tour, is incredible for us as a group.
Siya Kolisi
Barrett highlighted the intensity that characterizes these encounters and anticipated a memorable tour. The series of matches promises to be a highlight on the rugby calendar.This is a great rivalry, and one that is based on mutual respect, but for 80 minutes these are two teams that give it their all every time they play.
Scott Barrett
- Friday, August 7: DHL Stormers vs. New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Tuesday, August 11: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs. New Zealand at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
- Saturday, August 15: Vodacom Bulls vs. New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
- Saturday, August 22: First Test – South Africa vs. New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
- Tuesday, August 25: Lions vs. New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
- Saturday, August 29: Second Test – South Africa vs. New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Saturday, September 5: Third Test – South Africa vs. New Zealand at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
- Saturday, September 12: Fourth Test – South Africa vs. New Zealand (venue to be announced)
