Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus was the talk of Cape Town on Thursday as he led hundreds of devoted fans on his annual Christmas walk along the city’s scenic coastline.
The 53-year-old issued an invitation on social media platform X two weeks ago, calling on the world champions’ supporters to join him for the early morning trek. “This is to thank you for your passionate support and the way you carry us,” Erasmus wrote. “Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie (They don’t know what we know).”
The six-kilometre walk commenced at 06:00 in Bloubergstrand, where Erasmus resides, with participants trekking to neighbouring Table View before returning to the starting point. The route remained unchanged from the inaugural walk in 2024.
“Merry Christmas to you guys as well. We just started last year, I think it was the night before Christmas and a few friends said let’s go for a walk,” Erasmus told SABC News.
“We sent messages on WhatsApp and told people who’s maybe lonely or family that wants to join and this year, I think it doubled (in size) or something like that.”
The veteran coach emphasised the informal nature of the event, describing it as a relaxed gathering with minimal structure. “No rules, we just get together, walk three kilometres out, three kilometres back, sign a few things, give a photo or so and everybody goes and do their thing.”
Erasmus revealed the walk represents his personal way of expressing gratitude to the Springboks faithful, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout successful campaigns.
“It means everything. If they weren’t there, we would be playing in front of nobody and for nobody,” said Erasmus. “I live here in Blouberg and I know most of the people here. I know a lot (of them) are not from Blouberg, who drove here.
“But it’s just a small little thank you to them and (a chance) to mingle with them on the ground. We sometimes don’t get a chance to do that so it’s wonderful.”
The gesture follows another outstanding year for the Springboks, who remain firmly entrenched atop World Rugby’s official rankings. South Africa completed a perfect Autumn Nations Series campaign, winning all five Tests, whilst successfully defending their Rugby Championship title earlier in 2025.
The world champions concluded their international season with an impressive 86.67% success rate, winning 13 of 15 Tests played throughout the year.
