Neethling Fouche extends contract with DHL Stormers

The DHL Stormers have secured the services of experienced tighthead prop Neethling Fouché for another three years, with the 32-year-old signing a contract extension that will keep him in Cape Town until at least 2028.

Fouché, who joined the Stormers in 2018, has been a cornerstone of the team’s success.

With 88 appearances for the DHL Stormers and 36 for DHL Western Province, he has consistently delivered powerful performances at scrum time while showcasing impressive versatility around the field.

In addition to his technical prowess, Fouché has taken on a leadership role within the squad, further solidifying his value to the team.

Despite receiving offers from several overseas clubs, the prop chose to remain with the Stormers, citing the team’s culture and his desire to represent South Africa as key factors in his decision.

Director of Rugby John Dobson praised Fouché’s commitment and highlighted his importance to the Stormers' plans for the future:

"Neethling is an incredible team man and as a tighthead prop is coming into his prime, so we are looking forward to even bigger things from him.

"He competes with one of the greatest ever tightheads in Frans Malherbe and keeps pushing his standards, so it is understandable that many other teams would love to have a player of Neethling’s stature in their squad."

Dobson also emphasized Fouché’s contribution to developing the next generation of front-row players, describing him as integral to the team’s long-term success.

For Fouché, staying with the DHL Stormers is more than a professional decision—it’s deeply personal: "Every time I put on the DHL Stormers jersey I get quite emotional. This team means the world to me, and I honestly don’t want to play my rugby anywhere else."

Reflecting on his experience in Cape Town, Fouché expressed gratitude for the unique opportunities the city offers and his ambition to continue pushing himself and the team to greater heights.

"This squad has the potential to achieve great things; we are only at the beginning," he added.