Johannesburg, South Africa – In a moving tribute to 130 years of rugby excellence, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its commitment to one of the country’s most iconic sporting institutions, the Toyota Free State Cheetahs. During the halftime break of the team’s historic clash against Georgia on 11 July, TSAM handed over six brand-new, locally manufactured Corolla Cross 1.8 XS vehicles at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein—a powerful symbol of a partnership defined by legacy, loyalty and shared purpose.
The gesture, marking 15 years of Toyota’s steadfast sponsorship, comes at a pivotal moment in the Cheetahs’ journey—celebrating more than a century of grit, growth and community engagement. Founded in 1895, the Toyota Cheetahs have cemented their status as a cornerstone of South African rugby. From grassroots development to top-tier competition, the team embodies the values of perseverance, pride and performance.
Addressing media and fans during the symbolic key handover, Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors, said:
“This is more than just a vehicle handover to the Toyota Cheetahs. It is a celebration of legacy, loyalty and the future of South African rugby. As a proud partner, we wanted to do more than simply say congratulations—this is a gesture of appreciation for the team’s ongoing commitment to performance and the community.”
The Corolla Cross—assembled at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in KwaZulu-Natal—is a fitting gift. Like the Cheetahs, it is proudly South African, robust, dependable, and built to go the distance. With its sleek styling, generous space and reliable performance, the Corolla Cross 1.8 XS mirrors the versatility and endurance of the team it now supports.
Toyota’s celebration of this milestone extended beyond the field, with a visit to the Toyota Cheetahs Academy—a talent incubator for future rugby stars. TSAM is investing in the complete renovation of the facility, transforming it into a state-of-the-art, all-inclusive training hub for both junior and senior, male and female teams. Housed in a historic building adjacent to the stadium, the Academy has long been a silent witness to some of the Cheetahs’ most triumphant moments.
Rory Duncan, CEO of the Toyota Free State Cheetahs, shared his gratitude:
“Our relationship with Toyota South Africa has always been about more than just sponsorship—it’s a true partnership grounded in shared values and a belief in the transformative power of sport. As we celebrate 130 years of Cheetahs rugby, we’re especially thankful for Toyota’s unwavering support. Their commitment inspires us to continue developing talent, uplifting communities and making our supporters proud.”
As part of the Academy revamp, many historical elements and memorabilia will be relocated to the main foyer, creating a dedicated space to honour the team’s legacy while motivating future generations.
The night’s celebrations were capped by a thrilling 24-20 win over Georgia—a victory that echoed the team’s tenacity and resilience. It was a timely reminder that while history is worth honouring, the future is equally bright.
With the Currie Cup looming on the horizon, the Toyota Cheetahs step forward not only with momentum on the pitch, but with the strength of a 15-year partnership behind them—one that continues to champion excellence, uplift communities and proudly celebrate South African heritage.
At Toyota South Africa Motors, we believe in the power of sport to drive meaningful change, unite communities, and shape legacies that endure.
