Siya Kolisi set for Stormers return after Sharks exit

Siya Kolisi will leave the Sharks at the end of the season and return to Cape Town to rejoin the Stormers in July 2026, the club has confirmed.

The two-time Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain is expected to play a key on-field role while also mentoring younger players as part of the Stormers’ long-term planning under Project 2029.

The move will see Kolisi return to the region where his professional career began, allowing him to be closer to his family in Cape Town.

Stormers Rugby said the decision aligns with the club’s aim to add experience and leadership while continuing to develop squad depth and maturity.

Kolisi made his Stormers debut in 2012 and went on to earn 118 appearances for the franchise. He was named Stormers captain in 2017 before taking on the same role with the Springboks the following year. He later led South Africa to Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said Kolisi’s influence will extend beyond matchday contributions.

“We have got an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad and a number of very strong young leaders, with the last three Junior Springbok captains all on our books," he said.

“Siya will be able to help develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could, given what he has achieved and what he represents to all South Africans and especially our fans.

“We are very aware of the load that he has carried professionally and personally over the last few years, but what is so encouraging is the way that he has bought into helping us reach the goals we have set for ourselves in developing our squad as we build towards Project 2029".

Kolisi described the return as a significant moment for him and his family, saying Cape Town holds special memories from his formative years. He added that he is eager to give back to the club and supporters who played a major role in his development.

“I have such incredible memories of my time at the Stormers, the way I was embraced by the fans in my formative years has never left me," said Kolisi, who has played 103 Tests for the Springboks.

“My family is in Cape Town and it is important to me to be close to them. This move gives me the chance to do that while also giving back to the team and fans who made such a big contribution to the player and person I am today.

“I am looking forward to contributing in any way I can to the future success and happiness of this special club and its incredible supporters".