Siya Kolisi will make an emotional return to the Stormers in July 2026, with Director of Rugby John Dobson hailing the World Cup-winning captain’s mentorship qualities as invaluable for the franchise’s ambitious Project 2029 vision.
The 34-year-old flanker will rejoin the Cape Town-based outfit from the Sharks, taking on a pivotal role in developing the next generation of talent whilst adding crucial experience to the squad’s leadership structure.
“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,” said Dobson.
The Stormers boss emphasised Kolisi’s unique ability to nurture emerging talent, citing his unparalleled achievements and symbolic importance to South African rugby.
“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,” Dobson explained.
Dobson acknowledged the immense pressures Kolisi has shouldered throughout his career but praised his commitment to the franchise’s long-term objectives.
“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.”
For Kolisi, the move represents a homecoming that extends beyond professional considerations. The former Springbok captain cited family proximity as a determining factor in his decision to return to the Western Cape.
“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,” Kolisi reflected.
“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.”
Kolisi’s return promises to bolster the Stormers’ leadership depth significantly, with the franchise boasting an impressive collection of young captains alongside their veteran acquisition.
“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,” Kolisi concluded.
The signing represents a statement of intent from the Stormers as they continue building towards their 2029 strategic goals, combining experienced leadership with emerging talent in pursuit of sustained success.
