Siya Kolisi’s anticipated retirement after the upcoming Rugby World Cup—and why

Here’s an in-depth look at Siya Kolisi’s anticipated retirement after the upcoming Rugby World Cup—and why the Springboks legend is making this momentous choice.

 

 

—

 

🇿🇦 The epitome of leadership, ready to hang up the boots

 

Siya Kolisi stands as one of the greatest leaders South African rugby—and the world—has ever seen. Born in 1991, the loose forward rose from humble beginnings in Port Elizabeth to become the first Black captain of the Springboks, leading them to back-to-back World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023 .

At 34 now—and soon to be 36 by the 2027 Rugby World Cup—Kolisi is aware that his physical prime is nearing its end. Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus, who was instrumental in appointing Kolisi captain, emphasized that while older players bring value, the long-term vision relies on younger talent . Kolisi himself acknowledges the reality:

 

> “I understand that everyone only has a certain period at their peak… I just want to make the team” in 2027, regardless of whether he’s still captain .

 

 

 

His growing awareness of his own timeline—both in terms of typical peak performance and age—is a key driver in contemplating retirement.

 

 

—

 

Why the 2027 World Cup feels like the natural endpoint

 

1. Physical toll on the body

Kolisi has faced injury challenges in recent seasons—knee ligament issues that sidelined him during major tournaments. He’s been managing his rest carefully, including mandated breaks to preserve longevity .

 

 

2. Emergence of new talent

The Springboks are investing in a youth-filled squad poised to sustain the momentum. With players like Marco van Staden, Kwagga Smith and Phepsi Buthelezi pushing in competition for the flanker position, Kolisi knows the time is ripe for a generational handover .

 

 

3. Club vs country balancing act

Kolisi’s brief move to Racing 92 in France highlighted the tension between club duties and national commitments—Top 14 fatigue, family homesickness, and injury risk all weighed heavily on him . Returning to South Africa with the Sharks—the better-known route for Springbok consideration—will likely ease his international focus .

 

 

 

 

—

 

Life after rugby: championing change off the field

 

Even as his playing days wind down, Kolisi’s ambitions are far from over:

 

Kolisi Foundation

He plans to dedicate himself fully to the foundation he co‑founded, which focuses on breaking cycles of inequality and empowering South African communities .

 

Women’s rugby advocacy

Kolisi is committed to growing the women’s game, seeking equal access to sponsorship, support, and visibility .

 

Public speaking & business

He envisions a future as a speaker and mentor, offering inspiration to youth and businesses. His fashion brand “Freedom of Movement” is poised to launch abroad, including in the UK .

 

 

These plans demonstrate that Kolisi’s retirement isn’t an end—but a pivot toward sustained impact.

 

 

—

 

The lasting legacy he’ll leave behind

 

Siya Kolisi’s influence stretches well beyond rugby:

 

Trailblazer of representation: As the first Black Springbok captain, he broke deeply entrenched racial barriers in a traditionally white-controlled sport .

 

Unifier of the nation: Kolisi’s leadership came to symbolize hope and unity, inspiring diverse demographics across South Africa—his “tears of joy” victory celebration in 2019 remains etched in global memory .

 

Architect of transformation: Under his tenure, the Springbok squad saw a cultural evolution—eight of 15 starters by 2024 were players of color, a milestone he helped usher in .

 

Mentor to future champions: Kolisi’s emphasis on mentorship and succession planning is already helping younger players navigate international rugby .

 

 

 

—

 

Conclusion: A career woven with purpose

 

As Siya Kolisi sets his sights on the upcoming World Cup—likely his last in green and gold—his reasons are unmistakably clear: his body, his family, and an enduring mission that extends into broader social impact. Retirement on the horizon means a chance to pour his time and energy into initiatives far more transformative than any match could ever be.

 

Kolisi’s journey—from township hardship to international icon—continues to inspire millions. Whether leading from the front on the rugby pitch or guiding change from the sidelines, his legacy is already cemented. And while fans may mourn the next chapter of on-field absence, they can look forward to witnessing the profound influence Siya Kolisi will have in shaping South Africa’s social and sporting future.