SA Rugby President Mark Alexander Sheds Light on the ‘Golden Era’ of South African Rugby in Exclusive Interview
Alexander details how the sport has rebounded from historic lows to become the healthiest financially among Tier One nations, achieving success without the need for a government bailout during Covid
CAPE TOWN, South Africa –Mark Alexander, President of South African Rugby (www.SARugby.co.za) discusses with SA Rugby Magazine (https://www.sarugbymag.co.za) the remarkable financial and on-field transformation of South African Rugby.
Alexander details how the sport has rebounded from historic lows to become the healthiest financially among Tier One nations, achieving success without the need for a government bailout during Covid.
“Rugby is marketing our country globally; the exposure places our country high on the international landscape and reflects our resilience and determination as a country,” said President of South African Rugby, Mark Alexander.
To Access Full Interview: SA Rugby Magazine
“We did it tough, but we did it right,” added Alexander. “We have been in the news because of the proposed equity investment, and there have been many varying and conflicting reports. However, what has been missing in all the reporting is the commercial success story of SA Rugby over the last five years.”
During the interview, Alexander reflects on the challenges he took office in 2016, including commercial struggles, transformation concerns and financial instability. Under his leadership, SA Rugby has navigated these obstacles to emerge as a dominant force on and off the field, highlighted by back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories and the expansion into northern hemisphere competitions.
Key highlights from interview:
· Financial Resurgence: SA Rugby remains the only Tier One nation without Covid-era debt or government assistance, positioning itself as the sport’s financial benchmark.
· Global Expansion: The move into the Vodacom United Rugby Championship and Investec Champions Cup has created new commercial opportunities and enhanced competition for South African teams.
· Unmatched On-Field Success: The Springboks’ recent triumphs, including the 2023 Rugby World Cup and Rugby Championship, have reinforced South Africa’s position at the pinnacle of world rugby.
· Sustainable Growth Strategy: Alexander outlined ambitious plans for future-proofing SA Rugby, including an aggressive e-commerce strategy and deepened partnerships with commercial stakeholders.
· Upcoming Milestone Series: The highly anticipated 2026 All Blacks eight-match tour of South Africa, followed by the Springboks’ reciprocal tour in 2030, promises to be a historic moment in rugby’s greatest rivalry.
Media Contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor
nicole.vervelde@rugbyafrique.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women’s rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 40 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
