Suzuki Auto South Africa has renewed its naming sponsorship of the Griqualand West Rugby Union, extending its partnership with the Griquas for a further three years, from 2027 to 2029.

As part of the renewed deal, the team will continue to compete as the Suzuki Griquas, while their home ground – now an integral part of the Northern Cape’s Sol Plaatje University – will retain the name Suzuki Stadium.

“We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with Suzuki for a further three years,” says Arni van Rooyen, Chief Executive Officer of the Griqualand West Rugby Union. “Over the years, Suzuki has become far more than a sponsor to the Suzuki Griquas – they have become part of our rugby family. Their continued commitment is a strong vote of confidence in our union, our players and the direction in which we are heading.”

The Griquas are the second-oldest rugby union in South Africa, having been established in 1886. Shortly after its formation, the Northern Cape outfit hosted the first Currie Cup in 1892 and has since won the competition five times.

Growing fan base

Today, the team’s appeal extends well beyond the region it represents, with a loyal and growing fan base across the country drawn to its reputation as one of South African rugby’s most resilient underdogs. In 2025, the Suzuki Griquas won the Currie Cup Premier Division title, finishing ahead of established teams including the Fidelity ADT Lions, Toyota Cheetahs, DHL Stormers XV, Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks.

The triumph followed another milestone achievement in 2024, when the Griquas won the inaugural SA Cup Championship after defeating the Airlink Pumas in the grand final at Suzuki Stadium.

Over the years, the team has produced 63 Springbok players – including backline star Willie le Roux – while also securing several domestic honours, underlining its contribution to the development of South African rugby.

Partnership built on shared values

“Suzuki Auto South Africa is humbled by the privilege of extending our partnership with the Griqualand West Rugby Union, an organisation that consistently places its community and others ahead of itself,” says Henno Havenga, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa.

“The humility, tenacity and resilience shown by the players and professional staff are an inspiration, and we strive to reflect these same values in our business every day. We believe this partnership will continue to inspire hard work and success within the community and among young sports enthusiasts.

“We look forward to continuing this journey with the Suzuki Griquas and building on the success of our partnership through to 2029.”

• The Suzuki Griquas will begin their 2026 Currie Cup title defence against the DHL Stormers XV on 17 July, backed by the continued support of Suzuki Auto South Africa.

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