Nelson Mandela Bay is set to host an exciting rugby test match between the Springboks and Italy at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on July 12.
In a statement, Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) CEO Anele Qaba said that discussions to bring back national Springboks fixtures to Nelson Mandela Bay began in October 2024.
Qaba stated that after months of lobbying and engaging, securing the local Eastern Province Rugby Union as a key partner and tenant at the NMB Stadium has paid off.
“This result would not have been possible without the support of the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Honorable Oscar Mabuyane, and the National Minister of Sport, Honorable Gayton Mckenzie, who both backed the efforts of the entity and SARU,” he added.
Qaba explained that a Springbok Test Match is a significant revenue generator for various industries, from airlines to bed-and-breakfasts.
“The city will be abuzz to welcome the Boks to a venue where they have 100% success,” he remarked.
Qaba shared that the MBDA recently ensured that a big-ticket match, Chippa United vs. Orlando Pirates, is retained in the Nelson Mandela Bay.
“That game is happening this coming Wednesday, March 5, and we anticipate a midweek attendance crowd upwards of 20,000 spectators,” he further added.
“We are also expecting another announcement in the coming hours for a major cup semi-final match coming to the Bay stadium,” he concluded.
