South Africa's exit from Super Rugby opened tour door - Scott Robertson

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson believes South Africa’s move from Super Rugby to the United Rugby Championship created the space for a traditional tour format to return.

New Zealand will tour South Africa in August and September 2026, playing four Tests against the Springboks alongside matches against the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls and Lions.

Test venues have been confirmed as Ellis Park, DHL Stadium, and FNB Stadium, while the fourth Test will be staged at a neutral venue yet to be announced.

Robertson said the new concept was only possible because South African franchises had shifted competitions.

It was the fact that South Africa left Super Rugby that allowed this to happen,” he noted, adding that the series represents a once-in-a-generation chance to revive rugby’s greatest rivalry in its traditional form.

He highlighted that the All Blacks have not embarked on a full tour of South Africa for three decades, calling the 2026 tour a landmark moment for both nations.

“Honestly, if the South African teams had stayed in Super Rugby, this tour probably wouldn’t have happened.

"Their move north created the opportunity. The URC sides are strong now – full of Springboks and depth – so those midweek matches will be proper contests, not just warm-ups.

“This tour has a real place in the global rugby calendar. It’s a chance to test ourselves physically and mentally in the toughest environment there is. The timing – just before a World Cup [in 2027] – gives us a perfect opportunity to build depth and find out more about ourselves,” Robertson added.

The format will see the Springboks reciprocate with a tour of New Zealand in 2030, ensuring a fresh chapter in the rivalry continues into the next decade.