South Africa winning the Rugby World Cup will inspire millions on the African continent - Khaled Babbou

Khaled Babbou, President of Rugby Africa, and all the African unions’ presidents gathered in Tokyo congratulate the South African Rugby Union (SARU) on their successful Rugby World Cup and highlights the importance of African success for the future development of the sport.

“The Springboks have risen to the top of World Rugby Men’s Rankings and that brings Africa back on the map of the top world rugby teams. Millions of young kids will be inspired. The enthusiastic fan base in South Africa created a vibrant Rugby festival. This is a great signal and will surely provide a boosting dynamic for South Africa and its African co-unions. Through consistency, fair play and great teamwork, the dedication and professionalism of each team member, the Springboks showed greatest rugby moments. Congratulations, SARU, and we can’t wait to see the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town”, he said.

Led by the first black captain in the Springboks’ 128-year rugby history, South Africa’s multiracial team won their record third World Cup title by defeating England in a 32-12 victory on Saturday, November 2, 2019.

South Africa has only played in the World Cup seven times, having been barred from the 1987 and ’91 tournaments as part of sporting sanctions during the apartheid era.