Why is the Springboks logo NOT on the Rugby World Cup kit?

If you’ve had a good look at South Africa’s Rugby World Cup jersey, you’ll notice one glaring omission – the Springbok emblem!

The national team’s jersey for the competition looks noticeably different from their other kits. Here’s why….

WHY IS SPRINGBOK EMBLEM MISSING FROM RWC KIT?

In August, Nike revealed their Rugby World Cup kit ahead of the tournament, which is now in full swing in France. 

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The sports brand inked a six-year deal with the national team, taking over the helm from its predecessor, Asics.

The designs consist of a home, away, and second alternate jersey.

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But unlike other Springboks jerseys, the RWC one is noticeably different – the actual emblem of the national team is missing from the front of the jersey.

According to RWC apparel regulations, kits may only have three logos on the jersey front – the World Cup emblem, the official sponsor (Nike), and the country’s sports emblem.

While many consider the Bok to be SA’s emblem, it’s actually the Protea flower.

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According to SA People, the Protea is the official emblem of all South African sports teams, according to the government’s National Colours Act, taking precedence over the Springbok.

Dan Marais, former chairman of the SA Rugby Union (SARU) executive council, explained the move in 2011, stating: ‘It was very straightforward in the end as our attempts to find a place for the Springbok on the front of the jersey failed to find favour.

“We were left with no choice, and the important point to note is that this application will only be for World Cup events.”

WHERE IS THE SPRINGBOK LOGO?

The Springbok logo has now been moved to the jersey’s left sleeve. 

On the right sleeve is the Rugby World Cup trophy emblem – the Web Ellis Cup. Under the trophy are the dates in which SA won the RWC – 1995, 2007, and 2019.

@Springboks
Why is this group called Springboks, if this is your official kit ?

WTF Protea Rugby ???

SA Rugby – You insult the legacy of Nelson Mandela! pic.twitter.com/kg92lwobMM

— Patrick in Eastern Cape South Africa (@EcapePatrick) September 17, 2023

SA VS IRELAND: WHICH KIT WILL BOKS WEAR?

On Saturday, the Springboks will wear their second alternate jersey – a look we’ve yet to see on the national team.

According to SA Rugby, the third look is white with a hyper-jade (i.e., Checkers blue) collar.

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It said: “Nike proposed enhancing the plain look with a modern design drawing on various influences in a new combination to appeal to a new and wider audience. It was presented to senior Springboks, who gave it their seal of approval.”

While previous away kits have traditionally been white, the second alternative will incorporate a splash of colour. According to Nike, this was “inspired by the flora and landscape of South Africa.”