Two time World Cup winner and Springboks’ captain Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi has officially joined his new team, Paris based Racing92 after beating their national team France in the quarter-finals, and later being crowned as world champions in their city recently.
Siya is on a 3 year deal with the French team which will be ending in 2026.
A statement released by the team at the beginning of this year on their partnership with the skipper reads:
“Racing 92 are very pleased to announce the signing of Siya Kolisi. He is committed until 2026 and will join Ciel et Blanc at the end of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This signing is part of a broader long-term collaboration agreement between the Racing 92 and Cell C Sharks clubs.”
The team also added that one of its its key focuses was to promoting skill’s development at schools, which is also something close to Siya’s heart.
“Different areas have been defined, including an exchange of skills in rugby schools, training centres and the respective professional teams. Beyond the exceptional player, the captain of the world champion South African national team, Siya Kolisi, is known for his commitment to education and social cohesion.”
In a series of videos, the Racing 92 and Siya shared videos of the skipper’s welcome to the team. In one video, Siya is welcomed by management responding in a bit of French. The team captioned their post:
“Welcome Home”
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Another video sees the father of two meeting the whole team, captioned:
“Premiers pas en Ciel et Blanc @siyakolisi. First steps ad a Racingman.”
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They also shared pictures of the Racingman in training, donning the new team’s jersey.
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Upon seeing this post, many South Africans commented adding that the Racing 92 team has officially gained millions of South Africans as supporters for having the national treasure in their team.
“You’re going to have 60million South African supporters now. Where can we watch Racing92 rugby games from SA?”
“That’s our national treasure 🙌🏾❤️we are now RacingFans❤️🙌🏾.”
Others added a bit of humour on the post, sharing:
“Bro wins a WC at France than decides to move there😂.”
Also see: Rachel Kolisi and kids miss their flight to Paris
