Barbarians confirm South Africa clash for 2026

Barbarian F.C. have confirmed a high-profile summer tour in 2026, headlined by a fixture against world champions South Africa before a double-header against Wales at Twickenham.

Barbarians vs South Africa Summer Tour 2026

The Barbarians will face South Africa at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 20 June 2026. The fixture forms part of preparations ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship and continues the invitational side’s long-standing tradition of taking on leading international teams.

The match will mark the 10th meeting between the Barbarians and South Africa since their first encounter in 1952. The Springboks are set to use the fixture as part of their build-up to the Nations Championship campaign.

Twickenham Double Header Against Wales

One week later, the Barbarians will take on Wales at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on 27 June in a men’s and women’s double-header.

The Twickenham clash continues the Barbarians’ tradition of high-profile fixtures at major venues, offering supporters two international contests on the same day.

Robertson And Contepomi Lead Coaching Team

The 2026 summer tour will be overseen by an experienced coaching group including former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi. They will be joined by Racing 92 head coach Patrice Collazo and Argentina assistant coach Kenny Lynn.

“It’s always exciting to face the BaaBaas, and we are looking forward to hosting them in South Africa for the second year in a row — this time at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, where we have traditionally enjoyed fantastic support,” said Rassie Erasmus.

“With our opening Nations Championship encounter against England two weeks later, this will be an ideal opportunity to get the players match-ready against a side that always boasts top players from across the world.

“The key for us, however, will be to focus on our structures and what we want to achieve on the field. This is a new season with two new exciting competitions, so the sooner we get into a Test match mindset, the better.”