South African referee Jaco Peyper has declared his retirement, concluding a distinguished career in officiating.
Jaco Peyper, a South African referee, is retiring from the field after a decade as a leading figure in South African rugby.
At 43, Peyper officiated his last of 67 Tests – a tally surpassed only by fellow South Africans Jonathan Kaplan and Craig Joubert – at the previous Rugby World Cup. His career spanned three RWC tournaments and saw him oversee crucial matches in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, Super Rugby, Investec Champions Cup, and Currie Cup.
Peyper, ranked sixth among the most-capped Test referees globally, presided over nine finals, including five Currie Cups, three Super Rugby, and one Champions Cup, as well as two RWC quarter-finals. He also refereed numerous Six Nations and Castle Lager Rugby Championship matches, including a 2017 Test between the All Blacks and the British & Irish Lions.
Beyond the pitch, Peyper significantly contributed to nurturing upcoming match officials. In 2023, he joined the inaugural management committee of the International Rugby Match Officials, representing top male and female referees internationally. His collaborations with broadcasters to elucidate refereeing rules have been a notable aspect of his international career.
Peyper’s refereeing debut was in July 2011, overseeing Kenya versus Zimbabwe. His final Test was the RWC 2023 quarter-final between Wales and Argentina in Marseille on October 15. He refereed 14 matches across three Rugby World Cups (2015-23), marking his 50th Test during the Japan 2019 quarter-final between Wales and France.
JACO PEYPER DISCUSSES HIS APPROACHING RETIREMENT!
Peyper expressed that rugby is ingrained in his DNA and he felt privileged for his extensive involvement in the sport.
“I grew up alongside the rugby field, with my father as a coach. Later, I played and coached before turning to refereeing,” Peyper recounted.
“High-end refereeing comes with its challenges, but rugby has been overwhelmingly positive since my first-class debut 17 years ago.
“This journey has been incredible, filled with lasting friendships and travels to amazing places worldwide.
“Considering everything, now seems the right time to retire from active refereeing, dedicating more time to my family and growing business interests.”
He wishes to thank many people, particularly the CEOs of SA Rugby for their support, the High-Performance division, his fellow officials, and the Springboks, who have significantly influenced his refereeing skills.
“Rugby is a pivotal part of my life. Though I’m stepping away from active refereeing, I eagerly look forward to remaining connected to this beautiful game and giving back to the sport that has given me so much.”
