Stormers bolster ranks as Springboks hopeful set to become ‘firm favourite’ in Cape Town

The Stormers have confirmed the signing of South African back-rower Ruan Ackermann ahead of the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign, following his exit from Gloucester. 

Ackermann is the latest to put pen to paper on a deal with the Cape Town outfit, following Cobus Reinach and Ntuthuko Mchunu in making the move.

Ruan Ackermann makes Stormers switch following Premiership exit

The versatile forward, who can play all three back-row positions as well as lock if required, became a firm fan favourite during his time at Kingsholm. After making the move to Gloucester from the Lions in 2017, Ackermann went on to make 172 appearances for the Cherry and Whites, scoring 23 tries along the way.

He also played a crucial role in their 2024 Premiership Rugby Cup title, as well as helping them reach the EPCR Challenge Cup in the same season.

The 29-year-old was one of 19 players confirmed to be leaving the West Country outfit at the end of the season, alongside British and Irish Lions and Scotland back Chris Harris, Wales international Gareth Anscombe and Christian Wade.

Commenting on the news, Stormers director of rugby, John Dobson, said: “Ruan is a proven performer who puts in the kind of hard work that our game model requires. Our fans can expect complete commitment from him for every minute he spends in our jersey.

We are very excited to see the impact he will make here and I’m confident that he will become a firm favourite at DHL Stadium.”

Also commenting, Ackermann added: “The support for rugby in Cape Town is second to none and there are obviously some incredible players and coaches there, so I am looking forward to what should be an exciting new journey for me and my family.

“I’m ready to give everything I have to the cause and make a positive contribution in any way I can as part of what will be a strong squad next season.”