Fans of Racing 92 could see Siya Kolisi in the colors of the French club for the first time.
The 32-year-old loose forward, who was at the helm of the Springboks’ successful World Cup campaigns in 2019 and 2023, signed a three-year contract with the Parisian team and he was officially welcomed by club president Laurent Travers on Thursday.
Kolisi is likely to make his Racing debut on November 26 when the club take on La Rochelle in the French capital.
“I’m excited. It almost feels like the first day back at school,” said the Springbok captain.
According to the double-door Webb Ellis winner, reputation doesn’t count for much; he wants to make his mark on the field.
“I want to prove myself to the fans, learn the language and become familiar with a new culture. When I leave the club one day, I’d love for people to say that I gave my best.
Premiers pass and Ciel et Blanc @SiyaKolisi
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Kolisi has already represented the Springboks in 83 tests and he won 67% of his 53 matches as captain.
In addition to his World Cup success, he was also at the helm of affairs when the South Africans squared off with the British and Irish Lions in 2021.
In the same year, he became the first Springbok captain (since Jean de Villiers in 2013) to walk away with SA Rugby’s player of the year award.
“We are very excited to welcome a player of Siya’s skills and character traits. As a coach I will want to challenge him and I believe that he can still learn about the game. He is a role model for many people and he is a man who is true to his values,” said coach Stuart Lancaster.
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— Racing 92 (@racing92) November 9, 2023
Kolisi said during the World Cup triumph tour that he was still persuaded to wear the Springbok jersey.
“I am still available to be selected. Nothing is going to change. i want to play To represent the Springboks is the most important to me; regardless of whether I’m captain or not.”
