South Africa captain Siya Kolisi has officially rejoined the Sharks after prematurely ending his contract with French Top 14 club Racing 92, the Durban-based franchise confirmed on Monday.
The 33-year-old, who has won two Rugby World Cups with the Springboks, made only 18 appearances for Racing 92 in his first season due to injuries, despite signing a three-year contract. Additionally, reports suggest that Kolisi’s family found it difficult to settle in Paris.
Kolisi expressed his gratitude to Racing 92 for allowing his return to South Africa: “My family has missed South Africa, and it’s time to come home. I would like to thank Racing for accommodating my request. It’s a great club with a strong tradition and a talented group of players, who I now consider brothers for life.”
Looking ahead, Kolisi added: “I am excited to return to Durban and rejoin the Sharks. My family and I love Durban and its people, and I can’t wait to run out at Kings Park during the 2024-2025 season.”
Kolisi will strengthen a formidable Sharks forward pack that already includes fellow Springbok regulars such as prop Ox Nche, hooker Bongi Mbonambi, and lock Eben Etzebeth.
Having made his debut for South Africa in 2013, Kolisi became the Springboks’ first black Test captain in 2018. He led the team to World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023. Just last Saturday, he scored a try in the Rugby Championship win over arch-rivals New Zealand in Cape Town.
The Sharks, along with the Bulls, Lions, and Stormers, are among South Africa’s most prominent rugby franchises and are the current holders of the European Challenge Cup title.
