The Springboks concluded the 2025 Test season with 12 wins out of 14 Tests during the year, equalling the record for the most tries in a season with 81 (set in 2007 in a 17-test programme) for a record average of 5,78 tries per Test.
This successful season included the successful defence of the Rugby Championship title, as well as a second successive unbeaten Outgoing Tour to Europe.
Now, with the Test season over, it’s understood that SA Rugby will look to sit down with Rassie Erasmus to accelerate contract negotiations.
Erasmus remains under contract until at least the 2027 World Cup, but there is reported willingness to secure an extension for him and his coaching team until 2031, when the global showpiece will be staged in the USA.
Talks between SA Rugby and Erasmus’ representatives began after the Springboks defended the Rugby Championship title, but these were placed on hold until the November internationals were done and dusted.
Rassie Erasmus is arguably already the greatest Springbok coach of all time
The double World Cup winning coach has been involved in 89 Tests with the Springboks as director of rugby and head coach since taking charge in 2018 – winning 64 of them (72%).
A key factor in the negotiations for an extension will revolve around the fact that Erasmus would also want to ensure he can retain the services of his trusted coaching staff, but that is not expected to be an issue considering the success of the team.
The Springboks were congratulated by Mark Alexander, the President of SA Rugby, on Monday for an outstanding 2025 season.
“On behalf of SA Rugby, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Rassie Erasmus, Siya Kolisi, the Springbok coaches, management team and the entire squad for their outstanding performances over the past year,” said Alexander.
“Your sacrifices, dedication and unwavering commitment have once again united our nation and inspired millions. The Springboks have not only delivered excellence on the field, but have also carried themselves with dignity and humility off it – serving as true ambassadors of South Africa.”
Alexander lauded the Boks – who returned to South Africa from Europe on Monday after winning all five Tests in November – for their resilience, discipline and teamwork.
“We salute the coaches, management and every player for the role you have played in strengthening the Springbok legacy,” he said.
“Your efforts have elevated South Africa’s standing on the global stage and reminded us all of the power of rugby and sport to bring people together.
“This not only defines our rugby heritage, but it’s a reminder that the Springbok jersey represents more than sport; it embodies unity, hope and the pride of our people.”
Current management team:
Head Coach: Rassie Erasmus
General Manager: Charles Wessels
Assistant Coaches: Tony Brown, Deon Davids, Jerry Flannery, Daan Human, Felix Jones, Mzwandile Stick
Mobi-Unit Coach: Duane Vermeulen
Head of Athletic Performance: Andy Edwards
Laws and Discipline Advisor: Jaco Peyper
Performance Analyst: Paddy Sullivan
Technical Analyst: Lindsay Weyer
Sport Scientist: Sebastian Prim
Team Doctor: Dr Jerome Lehlogonolo Mampane
Physiotherapists: Dr Anuerin Robyn, Lance Lemmetjies
Logistics Manager: JJ Fredericks
Operations Manager: Zintsika Tashe
Media Manager: Zeena Isaacs van Tonder
Dietician: Robyn Moore
