The Vodacom Bulls have confirmed the appointment of Johan Ackermann as head coach ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The former Springbok lock and three-time South African Coach of the Year joins the Pretoria-based franchise after a coaching stint with the Junior Springboks during the ongoing World Rugby U20 Championship.
Ackermann, 54, returns to Loftus Versfeld with a strong coaching résumé that includes domestic, international, and overseas experience. He replaces Jake White as head coach and will formally begin his role following the U20 final in Italy.
IT’S A PRIVILEGE, SAYS ACKERMANN
Speaking from Italy, where he is assisting the SA U20 team, Ackermann described the Bulls job as a significant moment in his coaching career.
“The moment I received the call, I got goosebumps. It’s a privilege and an honour to coach a team with such tradition and passionate supporters,” he said. “The Bulls are already in a strong position; my focus is on building on that and helping them grow further.”
BULLS LEADERSHIP BACKS ACKERMANN
Willem Strauss, president of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, said Ackermann’s ties to the Bulls and his coaching credentials made him the ideal candidate.
“Johan’s blood is blue,” said Strauss. “He played for the Bulls, made his Test debut at Loftus, and is a Carlton League legend. His management of people and ability to build team culture are well known.”
Blue Bulls Company CEO Edgar Rathbone said the appointment aligns with the franchise’s long-term goals.
“Johan Ackermann is a proven leader and developer of talent. His coaching track record speaks for itself. He’s someone who understands the values of this union and can build on the foundations already in place,” said Rathbone.
ACKERMANN CAREER SUMMARY AND COACHING CREDENTIALS
Ackermann made 13 Test appearances for South Africa between 1996 and 2007, and became the oldest Springbok debutant at age 37. After retiring from playing in 2008, he began his coaching career with the Lions, where he progressed from forwards coach to head coach in 2013.
During his tenure, the Lions reached consecutive Super Rugby finals and established a high-tempo, structured playing style. Ackermann also coached the South Africa ‘A’ side in 2016 and 2017.
He then spent three years coaching Gloucester Rugby in England, guiding the club to a European Challenge Cup final and an English Premiership semi-final. More recently, he worked in Japan with NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes and Urayasu D-Rocks.
Ackermann returned to South African rugby in early 2025 as part of the Junior Springbok management team and has been involved in their campaign at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy.
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