Free State disappointed by Springboks Trophy Tour snub in Bloemfontein

It has been reported that the people of Free State are heartbroken after the Springboks excluded Bloemfontein from its Trophy Tour this week.

ABOUT THE SPRINGBOKS TROPHY TOUR

In a statement, SA Rugby Union confirmed that a four-day trophy tour has been meticulously planned to convey the team’s appreciation and proudly showcase the trophy as it embarks on another four-year journey in South Africa.

Mark Alexander, President of the South African Rugby Union, who passed on the Springboks’ heartfelt gratitude to all South Africans for their overwhelming support and passion, highlighted that the tour’s purpose was to reach as many people as possible within the limited timeframe before the squad disperses. The five largest population centres in the country—Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Soweto, and Pretoria—have been given priority to provide the maximum number of people with the opportunity to welcome the team.

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FREE STATE SADDENED BY BLOEMFONTEIN SNUB

However, My City Bloemfontein conveyed how the people of Free State felt about the news.

“The entire Free State has expressed disappointment upon hearing the news that The Boks would not be making a stop in Bloemfontein for their Trophy Tour this week.”

My City Bloemfontein

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SA Rugby furthermore acknowledged the significance of the Eastern Cape in the history, development, and future of black rugby, leading to a visit to Buffalo City on a non-working day to enable individuals from the region to be part of the celebration.
Regarding the choice of Buffalo City over Nelson Mandela Bay, Alexander noted that another significant Springbok event is planned for the metropole in 2024, although specific details are yet to be confirmed.

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TROPHY TOUR FOR 2024 INCLUDES FREE STATE

Alexander said: “The players’ club commitments necessitate their swift return or immediate rehabilitation after 21 weeks of intense competition since the Castle Lager Rugby Championship began. Satellite tours to other population centres in the Free State, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Northern Cape, among other places, are in the planning stages, with scheduling contingent on players’ club commitments.
“While it was always challenging to visit every town and city due to time constraints, we are confident that our choices and ongoing planning will enable us to visit all major population centres in every province over time. With the Cup in our possession for another four years, there’s ample opportunity for that. Thank you, South Africa,” said Alexander.

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The Trophy Tour kicks off this Thursday, 2 November, in Johannesburg, Soweto, and Pretoria.

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