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Springboks target rivalry series win in Baltimore

By Drooid · Sep 11, 2026, 3:49 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Springboks Chase Top Ranking

South Africa’s Springboks aim to clinch the Greatest Rivalry series in Baltimore.
They lead the series 2-1 after wins in Cape Town and Soweto.
World Rugby’s top ranking hinges on the match; a New Zealand win would retake #1.
Damian Willemse starts at fullback, replacing injured Cheslin Kolbe who has a broken jaw.
Siya Kolisi captains South Africa while Richie Mo’unga starts at fly-half for New Zealand.

Summary

SA Rugby Revenue

SA Rugby and NZ Rugby expect $4-6 million revenue from the Baltimore test versus a South Africa venue.
World Rugby is reportedly paying a bonus to unions for staging the match in the United States.
Average tickets cost about $200, generating an estimated $8 million extra split revenue.
The game will stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. and free worldwide via RugbyPass TV.

History

Historical Context

The 1995 Rugby World Cup final, held in Johannesburg, saw the Springboks defeat the All Blacks 15-12, symbolizing post-apartheid unity. Nelson Mandela presented the trophy, and the tournament generated roughly $100 million in global revenue, spurring commercial interest in rugby markets. Today's Baltimore test mirrors that expansion drive, as World Rugby offers unions $4-6 million bonuses and expects $8 million ticket revenue, streaming on Paramount+ and RugbyPass TV. If New Zealand reclaims the top ranking, the match could cement U.S. market growth, prompting multinational broadcasting deals and solidifying rugby’s foothold in a football-dominated arena.

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Springboks Chase Top Ranking

South Africa’s Springboks aim to clinch the Greatest Rivalry series in Baltimore.
They lead the series 2-1 after wins in Cape Town and Soweto.
World Rugby’s top ranking hinges on the match; a New Zealand win would retake #1.
Damian Willemse starts at fullback, replacing injured Cheslin Kolbe who has a broken jaw.
Siya Kolisi captains South Africa while Richie Mo’unga starts at fly-half for New Zealand.

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