Rassie Erasmus wants to remain Springbok head coach until the 2031 World Cup in the USA, but SA Rugby must act fast.

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Rassie Erasmus wants to remain Springbok head coach until the 2031 World Cup in the USA, but SA Rugby must act fast to keep him.

According to Rapport, Erasmus is keen to extend his stay beyond the 2027 tournament in Australia and has the backing of his management team. However, he reportedly has two overseas options on the table should talks with SA Rugby stall.

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer confirmed that discussions are ongoing: “It looks promising,” he told Rapport.

Erasmus has been in charge of the Springboks since 2018, guiding the team to World Cup glory in 2019 and 2023. Saturday’s Test against Italy in Port Elizabeth was his 41st at the helm, while he was also a hands-on director of rugby during Jacques Nienaber’s 39-Test tenure.

Only Jake White (54), Peter de Villiers (48) and Heyneke Meyer (48) have coached the Boks in more Tests.

Erasmus is not currently eyeing a promotion and sees continuing as Bok head coach as his preferred option – provided a new deal is agreed soon.

In a move that could shape the future of South African rugby for years to come, Rassie Erasmus is reportedly seeking a contract extension to continue his tenure with the Springboks beyond the 2025 season. The mastermind behind South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023, Erasmus has become synonymous with the team’s modern era of dominance, innovation, and grit.

Currently serving as the Director of Rugby at SA Rugby, Erasmus resumed coaching responsibilities after Jacques Nienaber’s departure in late 2023. His dual role has ensured consistency in strategy and a continuation of the Springboks’ physical, tactical style of play.

According to sources close to SA Rugby, Erasmus is looking to solidify his involvement through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. With several key senior players nearing the end of their careers and a new generation of talent emerging, Rassie reportedly sees the next cycle as a crucial phase for regeneration, depth-building, and redefining the team’s identity.

The potential extension has been met with mixed reactions. Many fans and analysts see Erasmus as irreplaceable, praising his innovative use of squad rotation, psychological warfare, and bold selection choices. However, some within the rugby community have raised concerns about his polarizing leadership style and controversial moments, particularly regarding refereeing disputes.

SA Rugby is yet to make an official announcement, but insiders suggest the governing body is keen to retain Erasmus’ services, recognizing the continuity he brings during a crucial transition phase. With the Springboks preparing for the Rugby Championship and a packed calendar ahead, clarity on Erasmus’ future is expected in the coming months.

If granted, a new contract could mark the beginning of another golden chapter for the Springboks—under the ever-watchful eye of Rassie Erasmus.