Kolisi heading home to Cape Town

Cape Town and Stormers Rugby will welcome back two-time World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi at the conclusion of the season.

Kolisi will make his return in July 2026 from the Hollywoodbets Sharks and fulfill an important role mentoring the next generation as the club continues to build the squad’s depth and maturity as part of Project 2029.

The move will allow Kolisi to be closer to his family and also make a meaningful contribution to the team where it all started for him after leaving school.

The experienced Kolisi will not be the first or the last player to return to Cape Town and add significant value both on and off the pitch, as the club continues to strengthen its resources.

The iconic leader’s professional rugby journey started in Cape Town after he left school and he is now poised to add to his 118 DHL Stormers caps.

Having made his debut in 2012, Kolisi was appointed captain in 2017 before taking up the same position for the national team the following year. He went on to lift the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and would do so again in 2023.

The Springbok captain has a strong desire to return to where his professional rugby career started and be closer to his family and he is set to add immense value to the Stormers set-up, both through his on-field talents and the mentorship role he will offer to those around him.

Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux said that he is delighted to welcome Kolisi back.

“Siya is a national icon who has such a strong connection to our team and our supporters. He is also a family man who wants to be there for his children as much as possible.

“These are values that resonate with our club and given the significance of our heritage in defining where we want to go, we are very happy to welcome Siya back to hopefully see out his career in the jersey he wore when it started.

Kolisi said that returning to Cape Town is a significant moment for him and his family.

“I have such incredible memories of my time at the DHL Stormers, the way I was embraced by the fans in my formative years has never left me.

“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,” he said.

Director of Rugby John Dobson said that Kolisi will add value to the squad in ways that no other player could.

“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.

“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,” he said.

“Kolisi’s time in Durban has been defined by leadership, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to the game. A global rugby icon and one of the most respected figures in sport, he has been an outstanding ambassador for The Sharks brand and has played a meaningful role in shaping the culture of the squad during his time with the Club," the Sharks said in a statement.

The Sharks are built on the principle of family first. Siya’s decision has been made in the best interests of his children, as he looks to be closer to them and his family base in the Cape. This process has been handled with openness, honesty and mutual respect between the player and the Club.

The Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans paid tribute to Kolisi’s influence, while emphasising the importance of continuity and growth within the squad.

“Siya’s contribution to The Sharks goes far beyond matchday,” said Bryans. “He brought a level of leadership, humility and perspective that lifted everyone around him. While it is never easy to say goodbye to a player of his calibre, we fully respect his decision to put his family first. Importantly, Siya has helped set standards that will remain long after he moves on, and that creates real opportunity for the next group of leaders to emerge.”

Bryans added that Kolisi’s departure opens the door for younger players to take on greater responsibility.

“We have talented young players in our system who are ready for the next step. Players like Nick Hatton, Matt Romao and others have learned from one of the best and this transition allows them to grow, lead and help shape the next chapter of this Club. That is a natural and healthy part of building a sustainable team.”

Kolisi reflected on his time at The Sharks with gratitude and pride.

“The Sharks have been a special part of my journey,” said Kolisi. “From the players and coaches to the staff and supporters, this is a team with strong values and a real sense of family. I have loved being part of this group and especially enjoyed seeing the younger guys develop and gain confidence. While I had hoped to complete my career at the Sharks, I have to be there for my family who were unable to relocate to Durban. This decision wasn’t easy, but it is about being closer to my kids. I leave with nothing but respect for The Sharks and real belief in where this team is heading.”

“As Siya returns to the Cape, The Sharks thank him for his professionalism, leadership and commitment to The Sharks jersey. He departs with our full support and best wishes for the next phase of his career,” concluded Bryans.

Kolisi will always be part of The Sharks family and his positive influence and contribution to the team and people around him will not be forgotten.