Springbok captain Siya Kolisi confirmed he will be leaving the Sharks and returning to the Stormers in July 2026, reports Cape {town} Etc.
After a distinguished career that has seen him lift the Rugby World Cup twice, Kolisi’s decision comes as a response to his desire to be closer to his children following his divorce from Rachel.
Kolisi’s shift back to Cape Town aligns with the Stormers’ ongoing strategy, dubbed Project 2029, aimed at building depth and maturity within their squad.
Although initial reports suggested that the Sharks wanted Kolisi to complete his contract, the club has ultimately allowed him to return home, acknowledging the importance of family ties and personal choices in professional sports.
He will not only add to his impressive tally of 118 Stormers caps having debuted in 2012 and captained the side from 2017 but will also take on a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of rugby talents.
Kolisi expressed the emotional weight of his decision in a heartfelt video released by the Sharks, saying, ‘It’s been really tough not being close to them, and I think now it’s time for me to choose my kids… I wanna watch him play and not miss those special moments,’
Kolisi, who has spent time with Racing 92 in France and starred for the Sharks, is returning to the club where he nurtured his passion for rugby, now bringing invaluable experience and leadership.
Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux welcomed him back, highlighting Kolisi’s deep connection with the team and its supporters. ‘Siya is a national icon who has such a strong connection to our team and our supporters,’ le Roux stated.
‘These are values that resonate with our club,’
John Dobson, the Director of Rugby, echoed this sentiment, asserting that Kolisi’s involvement will significantly benefit both the current squad and emerging players. ‘We have an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad… Siya will be able to help develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could,’ Dobson remarked.
His presence promises to elevate the Stormers as they look towards a bright future.
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Picture: Steve Haag Sports / Gallo Images
