SA Rugby locks in Junior Bok, Blitzbok coaches as Rassie eyes long-term future

Talks are also under way to keep Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus on board through to the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the USA.

Foote, who made a dream start to his Junior Boks tenure by guiding South Africa to their first World Rugby U20 Championship title since 2012, is now set to lead the team into the next Olympic cycle. The former UCT and Melbourne Rebels coach capped off a superb debut season with a 23-15 win over New Zealand in the final in Rovigo.

Snyman, meanwhile, masterminded the Blitzboks' resurgence this year, steering the sevens side to a championship win in Los Angeles in May. His new deal also runs through to January 2029.

Attention now turns to Erasmus, who is currently contracted until the 2027 World Cup in Australia but is eager to stay on for another four-year cycle.

According to Rapport, Erasmus has the backing of his management team and is open to continuing in his current role through 2031 – but SA Rugby must move quickly, with two international suitors reportedly interested in his services.

"It looks promising," said SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer, confirming ongoing discussions with Erasmus.

Since taking charge in 2018, Erasmus has led the Springboks to two World Cup titles (2019 and 2023) and overseen 41 Tests as head coach. He also played a pivotal role as director of rugby during Jacques Nienaber's 39-Test spell at the helm. Only Jake White (54), Peter de Villiers (48) and Heyneke Meyer (48) have coached the Boks in more Tests.

Erasmus is not seeking a promotion or shift in role and remains committed to continuing as head coach - if SA Rugby can finalise terms soon.