Springboks Risk Losing Rassie Erasmus as Contract Talks Stall

Springboks Risk Losing Rassie Erasmus as Contract Talks Stall

South Africa could be in danger of losing Rassie Erasmus after the next Rugby World Cup, with the Springboks’ head coach yet to commit to a new deal.

While Erasmus has expressed a desire to remain with the team until the end of 2031, negotiations with SA Rugby have not been finalised.

Also Read: Rassie Erasmus Shake Things Up as Springboks Face All Blacks in Must-Win Clash

Offers From Abroad Put Pressure on Decision

According to Rapport, Erasmus has “at least” two other offers on the table and his camp is “under pressure to respond” to them.

Despite this, SA Rugby is holding off on a long-term commitment, preferring the 52-year-old to focus on the remainder of the Rugby Championship before talks intensify later in the year.

Also Read: ‘Rassie Erasmus is a cunning rooster’: All Blacks legend Murray Mexted praises the Springboks coach

Assistants’ Contracts Add Complexity to Erasmus Negotiations

A key factor complicating the negotiations is Erasmus’ insistence that his assistants remain in place until after the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the USA. Among them is Tony Brown, the New Zealander who became the Boks’ attack coach following their 2023 World Cup triumph. Brown has attracted interest from New Zealand, with NZR potentially eyeing his return as Scott Robertson’s All Blacks struggle in attack.

SA Rugby Stresses Importance of Securing Rassie Erasmus

Erasmus remains the most valuable asset, with SA Rugby acknowledging the importance of securing his services. Two months ago, chief executive Rian Oberholzer assured fans that “it looks promising” regarding his future, but a signed agreement has yet to materialise.

Having steered South Africa to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories and recently reclaiming the Rugby Championship for the first time since 2019, Erasmus is regarded as central to the Springboks’ continued dominance.