Rassie Erasmus Defends Siya Kolisi Against Fat-Shaming Accusations
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has responded to Racing 92 owner Jacky Lorenzetti’s criticism of Siya Kolisi, South Africa’s two-time World Cup-winning captain.
‘Invisible’ Kolisi Accused of Being Out of Shape
After leading the Springboks to their second consecutive World Cup title in Paris last October, Kolisi moved to Paris permanently, signing with Racing 92. His high-profile arrival brought significant expectations.
However, Kolisi’s first season with Racing 92 was disappointing, prompting Lorenzetti to express his frustration publicly. Lorenzetti accused Kolisi of gaining weight and prioritizing his “celebrity lifestyle” over his performance on the field.
“He gained weight, lost shape, and [on Sunday] he was invisible,” Lorenzetti said. “In the back row, we used to have an ever-present warrior, Wenceslas Lauret. At the moment, Siya is not [Lauret].”
Rassie Erasmus Defends Siya Amidst Fitness Debate
During a Springbok press conference in Pretoria, Erasmus confirmed Kolisi’s role as captain against Ireland and defended him against Lorenzetti’s criticism.
“Siya will be captain and play No 6 flank,” Erasmus said. “Siya’s fit, has no injury, and Siya’s not fat or transparent,” the coach added with a smile.
Kolisi acknowledged his struggle with weight recently, attributing it to the excellent food in Paris.
“The food is amazing here, that’s why I gained too much weight when I arrived,” Kolisi admitted. “I gained five kilograms, and then one of the physios at the gym said: ‘You look like ****’. That’s why I had to cut down on the food,” Kolisi concluded.
