Johannesburg, 03 July 2025 – In a move that cements a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and national pride, SA Rugby and Hyundai Automotive South Africa have officially expanded their long-standing partnership to include the full spectrum of national teams – headlined by the iconic Springboks.
Initially announced in April as the official vehicle partner of South Africa’s junior national teams and the prestigious Youth Week rugby tournaments, Hyundai’s partnership has now been elevated to encompass the Springboks, Springbok Women, and both the men’s and women’s Springbok Sevens teams. This announcement marks a new era in South African sport and mobility, united under the banner: United by Rugby. Driven by Hyundai.
“We are delighted to confirm the expansion of the relationship with Hyundai Automotive South Africa to encompass the entire Springbok family and look forward to a mutually-beneficial and long journey ahead – on and off the field,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
Hyundai joins a celebrated roster of Springbok partners with a pledge that extends beyond vehicles – it is a strategic collaboration built on shared values. With a global reputation for producing vehicles that blend reliability, durability and forward-thinking design, Hyundai’s brand philosophy mirrors the core tenets of the Springbok legacy: strength, resilience and performance.
“As a brand, Hyundai has earned a global reputation for building reliable, durable, and best-quality vehicles. Their brand philosophy aligns with our values,” added Oberholzer. “We are very grateful for Hyundai’s commitment to solving our transportation needs. We are always on the move, and from now on, SA Rugby will be driven by Hyundai.”
Hyundai Automotive South Africa CEO Stanley Anderson echoed this sentiment, highlighting the synergy between the two organisations.
“This powerful alliance brings together two iconic brands, each known for strength, excellence, innovation and reliability,” said Anderson. “Whether on the road or on the rugby field, both Hyundai and the Springboks share a commitment to pushing boundaries and inspiring greatness. It is therefore such a befitting honour for us to be an official vehicle partner of the reigning World Champions, having won the Rugby World Cup four times!”
As part of the expanded deal, SA Rugby will now benefit from a fleet of Hyundai’s award-winning vehicles, designed to meet the evolving transportation demands of a high-performance sporting organisation. From players and support staff to logistics and equipment, the new partnership ensures that SA Rugby’s mobility needs are handled with efficiency, comfort and safety.
The collaboration will come to life immediately with high-impact, fan-facing activations during the Castle Lager Incoming Series and the Castle Lager Rugby Championship. These immersive experiences will celebrate the fusion of rugby excellence and automotive innovation, bringing fans closer to the action and the Hyundai brand.
At its core, this partnership is about more than logistics. It’s a shared journey fuelled by national pride, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Just as the Springboks have come to symbolise unity and resilience on the global stage, Hyundai’s continued commitment to South African rugby reflects a deep-rooted belief in what it means to move forward — together.
Whether navigating the open road or charging towards the try line, the message is clear: SA Rugby is united by rugby. And now, driven by Hyundai.
