South African Government Backs 2035 Rugby World Cup Bid
South Africa’s Government Supports 2035 Rugby World Cup Bid
Pretoria – April 13, 2025>> Read more: Sports News
The South African government has officially endorsed the country’s bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, marking a significant move in the nation’s pursuit of bringing the global tournament back to African soil.
In a joint statement, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the South African Rugby Union (SARU) confirmed that the government will provide strategic, logistical, and financial support to strengthen South Africa’s bid. The initiative is being hailed as a national priority with the potential to deliver widespread social and economic benefits.
“South Africa has a proud rugby history and a proven track record in hosting major international sporting events,” said Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa. “We are confident that a successful bid will not only boost our economy and tourism sector but also unite the country and inspire future generations of sportspeople.”
The announcement has sparked excitement among fans and stakeholders, many of whom remember the iconic 1995 Rugby World Cup, when South Africa hosted and famously won the tournament on home soil. That historic moment, symbolized by Nelson Mandela presenting the trophy to captain Francois Pienaar, remains one of the most defining in the country’s sporting history.
SARU President Mark Alexander welcomed the government’s backing, saying, “This support is vital in demonstrating South Africa’s commitment to World Rugby and its readiness to host a tournament of this magnitude. We aim to deliver a bid that reflects the passion, diversity, and unity of our nation.”
South Africa is expected to face competition from other rugby powerhouses, but experts believe the country’s strong stadium infrastructure, passionate fan base, and experience in hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup give it a competitive edge.
Plans for the bid will focus not only on the tournament itself but also on legacy projects, including youth development programs, community sports investments, and long-term benefits for the host cities.
The official bid proposal is set to be submitted to World Rugby in 2026, with the host nation for the 2035 Rugby World Cup expected to be announced by 2028.
If successful, South Africa would become the first African country to host the Rugby World Cup twice — a milestone that would further solidify its place in the sport’s global narrative.
