Rassie Erasmus transformed Springboks beyond rugby success

In 2018, Rassie Erasmus returned to South Africa to lead the Springboks amid a challenging period for South African rugby.

Tasked with rebuilding a team shaken by a series of disappointing losses, Erasmus focused on restoring the Springboks as a dominant force while addressing deeper issues around team unity and transformation.

Erasmus quickly brought the Springboks back to prominence, securing back-to-back World Cup titles and a British & Irish Lions series win.

His approach went beyond athletic success; he introduced a new strategy to tackle transformation, encouraging diversity and unity within the team and changing perceptions of South African rugby globally.

In a recent interview, Erasmus expressed his commitment to refining the Springboks' image. "We aren’t just a bunch of bullies who want to bully their way right through," he told BBC.

Rather, he noted that the team is composed of "serious, intelligent guys who have business brains, farmers, and guys who have had tremendous struggles."

Erasmus’s work has ensured that the Springboks are seen not only as fierce competitors but as individuals with diverse stories and perspectives. His approach highlights a team driven by more than strength and aggression, redefining their image on the global stage.

“If you buy in and you take ownership, you’ll be safe here,” he said.

“And you’ll never be embarrassed by the group or us or the coaches if you tried something and it didn’t work. That is probably my philosophy…

“You ask why I keep going after another World Cup. For me, this team in South Africa, whatever I do reflects on the team,” Erasmus added.

“And I don’t want them to have that tag, that we would do something like that on purpose. I hated what came out of that and I’m sorry about that.”