BLOEMFONTEIN – The Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein will host future Springbok test matches following elevation to Class B (Tier 2) test match status a year after it was downgraded to a Class C- venue. The Free State Cheetahs and Free State Rugby Union (FSRU) confirmed the exciting development for the rugby fraternity at a media conference in Bloemfontein today.
In February last year, South African Rugby (SARU) downgraded the stadium to a Class C, significantly restricting it from hosting top-tier Springbok test matches. The decision was due to various factors, including limited flight access and accommodation capacity, as well as maintenance concerns regarding the sporting facility.
Tier 2 test status means the stadium now meets the required national standards to host quality Springbok test matches. These standards relate to infrastructure, cosmetic updates, facilities, media requirements, hospitality areas, and the overall spectator experience. The FSRU and the Cheetahs have welcomed this significant development that will boost the sport in the province and Bloemfontein.
Touring sides like the Argentina national rugby union team, Italy national rugby union team, Wales national rugby union team, Japan national rugby union team, the Barbarian F.C., and even a World XV can play again in the City of Roses.
Rory Duncan, outgoing CEO of the Cheetahs, said, “The big thing is that we look forward to hosting test matches and we know the next test match cycle. We know that SARU is also changing its commercial model, and we are hopeful that in the future we will host test matches in Bloemfontein.”
According to both the union and the Cheetahs, the stadium upgrade has significant benefits, positioning Bloemfontein once again as a viable host city for quality international rugby events and affirming that the stadium is equipped to accommodate international teams.
Stakeholders pointed out that the significant achievement of upgrading the stadium status was the result of strong collaboration involving various stakeholders. They include FSRU, FS Cheetahs, Mangaung Metro Municipality, Free State Sports Confederation and SARU. The last test match the Springboks played at the stadium was against Portugal on 20 July 2024, with the Boks winning 64-21.
According to the parties, the upgrade of the stadium has potential benefits including boosting tourism, boosting hospitality in hotels, boosting restaurant trade, supporting local transport providers, and stimulating retail activity. It is envisaged this will also increase the potential for creating event-related job opportunities.
