A new Springboks team kit was presented on Wednesday, designed for the series of matches known as 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Series.'
Nike, in collaboration with SA Rugby, introduced this unique kit for the 'Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.' The Springboks will face the All Blacks in the first of four test matches, scheduled for August 22nd at Ellis Park. This event marks the end of a 30-year hiatus in the series between these two great rugby nations, and they will do so wearing a specially commissioned kit that pays tribute to the team's connection with the South African people.
The central design element of the kit is a subtle, tone-on-tone graphic featuring the words of the South African national anthem, 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika,' printed in the shape of the South African flag. The words in five languages—Xhosa, Zulu, Sotho, Afrikaans, and English—will be placed on the team's chest, symbolizing the fusion of diverse voices, stories, and communities within South Africa.
The kit is developed using Nike's athlete-centric approach, combining a lightweight construction for high performance with a cut designed for the demands of modern rugby. It features Nike FIT ADV technology, crafted from high-quality materials and subjected to a rigorous testing protocol. Every detail is intended to help athletes move quickly, confidently, and focusedly, allowing the Springboks to play with the adaptability and creativity that have defined their success.
This kit reflects the Tour's promise to be 'unlike anything else' and will only be available during the four RGR matches. The green and gold palette evolves with each new generation, demonstrating that true heritage is not preserved but constantly reinterpreted. A new Springboks kit has been unveiled for 'Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry 2026.'
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, commented: 'This is truly a Tour unlike any other, and the kit reflects that.' He added that 'Nike excelled in developing a design that speaks directly and honestly about the motivation of the team and management—they play for the people of South Africa and show their hearts, and now they will wear the words of the anthem on their chests.'
The kit will go on sale on August 6th across three different price points at Nike stores and on Nike.com, as well as at Springbok retail outlets in Sandton, Menlyn Park, and Canal Walk, and in all major sporting goods stores.
