JOHANNESBURG – South Africa’s world champion Springboks are facing an unprecedented crisis in ticket sales, with only 21 000 of Ellis Park’s 61 000 seats sold by mid-last week for Saturday’s opening Test against England.

The sluggish sales mark a dramatic departure from previous years when Tests involving the world champions at the iconic Johannesburg venue would sell out within days of going on sale.

SA Rugby has attributed the poor sales largely to the economic impact of the ongoing war in Iran, which has sent fuel costs soaring and placed severe pressure on household budgets across South Africa.

“The impact of the war in Iran has undoubtedly had an impact on everyone’s pockets, which is reflected in the retail industry as well as in ticket sales,” an SA Rugby spokesperson told Rapport.

But economic pressures may not be the only factor keeping rugby fans away from Ellis Park.

The Doornfontein precinct surrounding the stadium has become increasingly notorious for urban decay, crime and safety concerns that have progressively eroded its reputation as a world-class sporting venue.

The area is characterised by hijacked and derelict buildings, unreliable water and electricity services, potholes, illegal dumping and broken street lighting. Many fans consider it unsafe to walk in the surrounding streets, particularly at night.

The stadium management reportedly spends approximately R7-million monthly on security and maintenance for the broader precinct, but streets only a few blocks from the venue remain what observers describe as “sketchy”.

Ahead of high-profile matches, the City of Johannesburg and private partners have previously implemented temporary beautification and security measures. In 2024, the Jozi My Jozi initiative installed over 380 solar-powered streetlights, repaired potholes and pavements, and added street art around the stadium.

However, these interventions have failed to reverse the long-term perception that Ellis Park and its surroundings are in decline. The Lions’ opening fixture of the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship attracted just 1 711 spectators to the venue.

Former Springboks have warned that the iconic stadium could be lost as a rugby venue if the deterioration continues.

Despite the challenges, SA Rugby remains hopeful that late sales will boost attendance closer to the historical average of 91% capacity for England Tests in South Africa.

“Tickets will be available until kick-off, and we are hoping for a strong week of final sales for the start of a major new competition,” the spokesperson said.

The match kicks off at 17:00 on Saturday.

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