Demian de Allende Opens Up on Stormers Homecoming: “It Feels Like I Never Left”
After years of globetrotting through Japan and Europe, Springbok stalwart Damian de Allende has officially returned to Cape Town and rejoined the DHL Stormers ahead of the 2025 season. In his first media appearance since the announcement, the powerful centre opened up about his decision to return, the emotional weight of coming home, and his ambitions for this next chapter.
“It honestly feels like I never left,” said de Allende during a press conference at the Stormers High-Performance Centre. “Walking back into the changing room, seeing the boys, smelling the sea air—this is home. And I’m ready to give everything for this jersey again.”
De Allende, 33, played a pivotal role for the Stormers during his first stint, earning a reputation as one of the most explosive and intelligent centres in world rugby. After leaving for Munster in Ireland and later taking up a stint in Japan with the Panasonic Wild Knights, his return was always a matter of “when,” not “if.”
“I’ve had some incredible experiences overseas, playing with and against world-class talent. But deep down, I always felt the call to return,” he explained. “The Stormers shaped me as a player and a person. It’s time to give back.”
Stormers head coach John Dobson expressed his excitement at having de Allende back in the squad, praising not only his on-field presence but his leadership and experience. “Damian brings more than just firepower in the midfield,” Dobson said. “He’s a leader, a calming influence, and someone who embodies the values of this franchise.”
De Allende’s return couldn’t be more timely. With a number of younger backs coming through the ranks, including Suleiman Hartzenberg and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, his mentorship is expected to be invaluable.
Asked about his goals, de Allende didn’t mince words: “We’re not here to make up the numbers. I want to win trophies with this group. The Stormers have come a long way, and I believe we can go even further.”
For Stormers fans, the return of a hometown hero has injected a fresh wave of optimism ahead of the new season. And for de Allende, the mission is clear—bring silverware back to the Cape.
