The 2026 edition of the Toyota Challenge is set to reach new heights, and for the first time, Suzuki Griquas will be part of the action in what promises to be a landmark international rugby showcase.
Joining the Toyota Cheetahs and Airlink Pumas, Griquas will take on top-tier international opposition when the competition kicks off in June at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
This year’s tournament introduces an exciting new format, featuring three international touring sides: Georgian outfit Black Lion, alongside Portugal and Romania ‘A’.
All three visiting teams bring serious pedigree. Georgia and Romania have already secured qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, while Portugal return to South Africa following their memorable test against the Springboks in Bloemfontein in 2024.
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For Griquas, this marks a significant opportunity to measure themselves against international competition and continue building on recent domestic success.
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander highlighted the importance of the competition, saying it offers the Griquas, Cheetahs and Pumas invaluable international exposure.
Festival of rugby
The first leg of the Toyota Challenge will take place across three match days – 5, 10 and 14 June – with a festival-style format featuring three matches per day.
Fans can expect more than just rugby, with matchday experiences including:
- fan activations and giveaways
- family-friendly zones
- student-focused entertainment
- live entertainment throughout the event
Fixtures to watch
Friday 5 June:
14:00: Airlink Pumas vs Black Lion
16:00: Suzuki Griquas vs Romania ‘A’
18:00: Toyota Cheetahs vs Portugal
Wednesday 10 June:
14:00: Suzuki Griquas vs Black Lion
16:00: Airlink Pumas vs Portugal
18:00: Toyota Cheetahs vs Romania ‘A’
Sunday 14 June:
12:00: Suzuki Griquas vs Portugal
14:00: Airlink Pumas vs Romania ‘A’
16:00: Toyota Cheetahs vs Black Lion
The kick-off times will be confirmed, while all matches for this first leg of the challenge is scheduled to take place at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Building toward the future
Originally launched in 2021, the Toyota Challenge continues to grow as a platform for meaningful international competition. This year marks the first time Griquas officially join the tournament, underlining their status as one of South Africa’s most competitive provincial sides.
SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer noted that both Griquas and Pumas have won major domestic titles in recent years, and that they are excited to see what they can bring to the party.
For Griquas, this tournament is more than just a series of matches – it is an opportunity to test depth, develop emerging talent, and compete on a broader stage.
With the second leg scheduled for October in Tbilisi, Georgia, the Toyota Challenge offers a truly international journey for all participating teams.
